Fluid Balance in the ICU - Interventions to Minimize Fluids in Patients With Septic Shock

Fluid Balance in the ICU - Interventions to Minimize Fluids in Patients With Septic Shock

The purpose of the study is to determine if a protocol that assesses patients' daily fluid intake and output can decrease the overall amount of fluid patients receive during the first five days in the ICU. The study will also determine if decreasing overall fluids can decrease adverse events associated with mechanical ventilation, such as ventilator-associated pneumonias.

The protocol will include daily ultrasounds and blood draws to evaluate fluid balance. Ultrasound will be used to measure changes in the diameter of the inferior vena cava with respiration.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adult patient with septic shock as the primary cause of hypotension
2. Requiring vasopressors for 12 hours after adequate fluid resuscitation and at the time of enrollment

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients with a history of end-stage renal disease requiring outpatient dialysis
2. Patients whose goals of care are consistent with comfort measures only
3. Pregnant patients