Indications for the use of neuromuscular blocking agents in the ICU

To facilitate mechanical ventilation in patients with severe hypoxemia (increase chest wall compliance, prevent poorly coordinated respiratory movements, reduce peak airway pressures, and facilitate permissive hypercapnia)

Shivering due to therapeutic hypothermia following cardiac arrest

Emergent intubation

To facilitate treatment of medical conditions associated with increased muscle activity, including tetanus, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, or status asthmaticus

To facilitate short procedures under general anesthesia (endotracheal intubation, bronchoscopy, gastrointestinal endoscopy, specialized radiologic procedures)

To prevent unwanted motor movement, such as respiratory distress and coughing on tracheal suction in patients with increased intracranial pressure or massive hemoptysis

These indications are predicated on conventional strategies of sedation and analgesia that have failed.

NMB: neuromuscular blockers; ICU: intensive care unit.

Graphic 75880 Version 5.0

خرید پکیج

Indications for the use of neuromuscular blocking agents in the ICU