Application of PiCCO technique in management and nursing of the fluid balance of mechanically ventilated patients

Abstract

Objective To evaluate whether PiCCO(pulse indicator continuous cardiac output) technique using for monitoring and guiding fluid infusion is a valuable tool in patients with mechanical ventilation. Methods Eighteen consecutive mechanically ventilated patients were installed PiCCO catheter and CVP catheter. All data from PiCCO technique were recorded and analyzed prospectively. Meanwhile, all data from PiCCO technique were compared with data from CVP. Results During the period of five-day monitoring, GEDV and ITBV were always higher than normal value and remained unchanged significantly.EVLWI was also higher significantly than normal value but decreased not significantly during the period of five-day monitoring. CI was normal and remained unchanged basically. GEDV and ITBV were significantly correlated with EVLWI and CI, but not CVP. Conclusions Volume variables(GEDV,ITBV)from PiCCO technique are more useful indicators than pressure variables (CVP)for assessment and guidance of fluid infusion. Key words: Haemedynamics; Extravascular lung water index; Fluid infusion; Intrathoracic blood volume; Global end-diastolic volume