Lung ultrasound score based on the BLUE-plus protocol is associated with the outcomes and oxygenation indices of intensive care unit patients.

Purpose: The primary objective was to demonstrate the relationship between lung ultrasound (LUS) manifestations and the outcomes of intensive care unit (ICU) patients. The secondary objective was to determine the characteristics of LUS manifestations in different subgroups of ICU patients.

Methods: This prospective multi-center cohort study was conducted in 17 ICUs. A total of 1702 patients admitted between August 31, 2017 and February 16, 2019 were included. LUS was performed according to the bedside lung ultrasound in emergency (BLUE)-plus protocol, and LUS scores were calculated. Data on the outcomes and oxygenation indices were analyzed and compared between different primary indication groups.

Results: The LUS scores were significantly higher for non-survivors than for survivors and were significantly different between the oxygenation index groups, with higher scores in the lower oxygenation index groups. The LUS score was an independent risk factor for the 28-day mortality. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.663 for prediction of the 28-day mortality and 0.748 for prediction of an oxygenation index ≤100.

Conclusions: The LUS score based on the BLUE-plus protocol was an independent risk factor for the 28-day mortality and was important for the prediction of an oxygenation index ≤100. An early LUS score within 24 hours of ICU admission helps predicting the outcome of ICU patients.