Prolonged Stay in the Intensive Care Unit: a Report of 2 Cases

Abstract

Prolonged stay in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is described as at least a 14- day stay in the ICU. It is associated with increased cost of care, increased resource utilization and impact on patients' morbidity and mortality. We present a report of two cases of prolonged stay in the ICU (32 and 39 days respectively) with emphasis on the course of illness and intervention. The role of serial arterial blood gas analysis, early tracheostomy and the presence of a dedicated consultant in the unit in the eventual outcome were highlighted.