Critical care medicine
Audio Summaries

Clinical Criteria for the Definition of Refractory Septic Shock: A Joint Delphi Consensus from the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) and European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM)

Mar 24, 2026

The authors aimed to establish a consensus on clinical criteria for defining refractory septic shock to improve diagnosis, management, and research in this severe condition. Through a Delphi process involving critical care experts, they identified 13 key criteria, including markers of organ dysfunction, tissue perfusion indicators, and specific treatment requirements, such as high doses of norepinephrine and the use of critical care ultrasound. This consensus provides a structured framework for recognizing and managing refractory septic shock in clinical practice.

Effects of a Combined Lifestyle Intervention on Recovery of ICU Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Mar 23, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the effects of a combined lifestyle intervention, including exercise and dietary support, on perceived physical functioning (PF) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in ICU survivors. The study found that participants in the intervention group experienced a significant improvement in PF scores and increased protein intake compared to the control group, suggesting that such interventions may benefit recovery in this population.

Sepsis and Subsequent Psychiatric Morbidity: A Nationwide Population-Based Matched Cohort Study, 2008-2019

Mar 23, 2026

The authors aimed to quantify the risk of developing psychiatric morbidity following community-acquired sepsis and to determine if new chronic diseases mediated this association. Their findings indicate that patients with sepsis experienced a significantly higher incidence of psychiatric events compared to matched controls, with the elevated risk persisting for at least five years. This suggests that sepsis may have lasting effects on mental health, highlighting the need for preventive strategies in this population.

Ready for Donation, Not for Death: A Qualitative Study of Families' Experience With Controlled Donation After Circulatory Determination of Death in Intensive Care

Mar 23, 2026

This qualitative study investigates the experiences and challenges faced by families of patients undergoing controlled donation after circulatory determination of death (cDCDD). Through in-depth interviews, the authors explore themes related to decision-making, the waiting period before death, and the controlled environment of the dying process, highlighting the need for better support for families during this time. The findings suggest that while families can engage meaningfully in the cDCDD process, proper preparation and emotional support are essential to mitigate distress.

Society of Critical Care Medicine Guidelines on Caring for Older Adults in the ICU

Mar 20, 2026

The authors aimed to develop evidence-based guidelines for the care of older adults (65 years and older) in the ICU, addressing their unique needs during and after critical illness. The panel generated two conditional recommendations advocating for a geriatric model of care and advising against the use of antipsychotic medications for delirium prevention, while also identifying areas needing further research. Ultimately, the guidelines highlight the importance of tailored approaches to improve outcomes for older ICU patients.

Gaps and Strategies for Management of Sepsis in Low-Resource Settings: Expert Consensus Statements Using a Delphi Method

Mar 20, 2026

The authors aimed to identify gaps in sepsis management and develop strategies tailored for low-resource settings (LRS), where the majority of sepsis cases occur but where resources are limited. Using a Delphi method, an international panel of experts reached consensus on 58 clinical practice statements focused on improving prevention, early recognition, and comprehensive management of sepsis in these settings. The findings highlight the need for further research to enhance sepsis care in LRS, while providing immediate guidance that complements existing international guidelines.

The Association Between Socioeconomic Position and Mortality in Patients With Sepsis and Septic Shock-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Mar 20, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the relationship between socioeconomic position (SEP) and mortality rates in patients with sepsis and septic shock. Their systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 observational studies revealed that indicators such as lack of private insurance, lower neighborhood socioeconomic status, and lower income were associated with increased mortality, highlighting the importance of incorporating equity-related variables in sepsis research to inform health policy and improve care for disadvantaged populations.

The Frame of Survival for Sepsis: A Practical Systems Framework for Time-Sensitive Critical Illness in Low-Resource Settings

Mar 20, 2026

The authors aim to develop a practical framework, the "Sepsis Frame of Survival," to improve sepsis management in low-resource settings (LRS), addressing the high mortality rates associated with this time-sensitive condition. By conducting a targeted scoping review and engaging a multidisciplinary task force, they identify actionable strategies and prioritize feasible interventions that can be integrated into existing emergency and critical care systems. The framework emphasizes immediate, high-impact actions while recognizing the need for local evidence to inform ongoing quality improvement efforts.

Temperature Control After In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: Outcomes From the Discover In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Cohort

Mar 20, 2026

The authors aimed to investigate the adherence to temperature control strategies for comatose survivors of in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) and its association with patient outcomes. They found that while a documented temperature control strategy was linked to a higher likelihood of receiving temperature therapy and a lower incidence of fever, it did not significantly affect survival or functional and neurologic outcomes. Notably, over half of the eligible patients did not have a documented strategy, highlighting variability in practice across hospital systems.

Ten Steps to Improve Sepsis Care in Low-Resource Settings

Mar 20, 2026

The authors aimed to develop a practical, consensus-based framework consisting of ten actionable steps to enhance sepsis care in low-resource settings. This framework, informed by global expertise and existing guidelines, emphasizes integration across the continuum of care, equitable access to interventions, and the use of emerging technologies to improve outcomes. Ultimately, the steps serve as a roadmap for health leaders and policymakers to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with sepsis and address global disparities in care.