Effectiveness of a multi-modal intervention protocol for preventing stress ulcers in critically ill older patients after gastrointestinal surgery.

Abstract

Background: Stress ulcers are common complications in critically ill patients, with a higher incidence observed in older patients following gastrointestinal surgery. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a multi-modal intervention protocol to prevent stress ulcers in this high-risk population.

Aim: To assess the impact of a multi-modal intervention on preventing stress ulcers in older intensive care unit (ICU) patients postoperatively.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial involving critically ill patients (aged ≥ 65 years) admitted to the ICU after gastrointestinal surgery was conducted. Patients were randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which received a multi-modal stress ulcer prevention protocol, or the control group, which received standard care. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of stress ulcers. The secondary outcomes included ulcer healing time, complication rates, and length of hospital stay.

Results: A total of 200 patients (100 in each group) were included in this study. The intervention group exhibited a significantly lower incidence of stress ulcers than the control group (15% vs 30%, P < 0.01). Additionally, the intervention group demonstrated shorter ulcer healing times (mean 5.2 vs 7.8 days, P < 0.05), lower complication rates (10% vs 22%, P < 0.05), and reduced length of hospital stay (mean 12.3 vs 15.7 days, P < 0.05).

Conclusion: This multi-modal intervention protocol significantly reduced the incidence of stress ulcers and improved clinical outcomes in critically ill older patients after gastrointestinal surgery. This comprehensive approach may provide a valuable strategy for managing high-risk populations in intensive care settings.