Chronic critical illness

From WikiMD.com - Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Chronic Critical Illness[edit | edit source]

Chronic critical illness (CCI) is a condition characterized by prolonged dependence on intensive medical care, often following an acute critical illness. Patients with CCI typically require extended stays in intensive care units (ICUs) and may experience a range of complex medical issues, including respiratory failure, sepsis, and multiorgan dysfunction syndrome.

A respiratory therapist providing care to a patient.

Definition and Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Chronic critical illness is defined by the need for prolonged mechanical ventilation and intensive medical support. Patients often have a tracheostomy and require ongoing respiratory therapy. The condition is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, and patients frequently experience significant physical and cognitive impairments.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The development of CCI can result from various acute critical illnesses, such as severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), or major trauma. These conditions can lead to prolonged ICU stays and the need for extended medical interventions.

Management[edit | edit source]

Management of CCI involves a multidisciplinary approach, including the expertise of respiratory therapists, intensivists, nurses, and physical therapists. Key aspects of care include:

  • Respiratory Support: Prolonged mechanical ventilation and weaning strategies.
  • Nutritional Support: Enteral or parenteral nutrition to meet metabolic demands.
  • Infection Control: Prevention and treatment of infections, particularly ventilator-associated pneumonia.
  • Rehabilitation: Physical and occupational therapy to improve functional outcomes.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for patients with CCI is generally poor, with high rates of mortality and long-term disability. Survivors often face significant challenges, including muscle weakness, cognitive impairment, and reduced quality of life.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP1 injections from $125

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program NYC and a clinic to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our W8MD's physician supervised medical weight loss centers in NYC provides expert medical guidance, and offers telemedicine options for convenience.

Why choose W8MD?

Book Your Appointment

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss, and Philadelphia medical weight loss Call (718)946-5500 for NY and 215 676 2334 for PA

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's NYC physician weight loss.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available. Call 718 946 5500.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD