The Central health Department has issued guidelines clarifying the admission criteria for patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The guidelines emphasize that patients who express a desire not to be treated in the ICU, and whose health is not expected to improve with the current treatment, should not be admitted to the ICU.
The decision is particularly relevant when family members or relatives convey the patient's preference not to undergo ICU treatment. Furthermore, the guidelines state that individuals who have documented a living will expressing their desire to avoid ICU treatment should be respected. The guidelines also consider issues related to limited resources during disasters and pandemics, emphasizing the need for thoughtful decisions on ICU patient placement.
In situations where there is a waiting list for ICU admission, the guidelines provide criteria for prioritizing patients based on factors such as blood pressure, breathing rate, heart rate, oxygen saturation, urine volume, and nervous system functioning. Patients exhibiting changes in mood, circulatory instability, respiratory system support needs, severe illness requiring special supervision, organ failure, diseases worsening health conditions, heart problems, fluctuations in respiratory system functioning, or those who have undergone major surgery may be considered for ICU admission.
These guidelines aim to provide a systematic approach to ICU admissions, ensuring appropriate utilization of resources and prioritizing patients based on their medical conditions.
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