How is the epidemiology of mechanically ventilated patients in the intensive care units of Argentina?

Mechanical ventilation is an indispensable tool in life support and one of the interventions that characterizes intensive care units (ICU).

Epidemiological studies have allowed us to improve knowledge and optimize the treatment of patients with acute respiratory failure.

In Latin America the epidemiological data of mechanical ventilation is poor.

Primary goal of this national, observational, prospective, multicentric epidemiological study: to analyze the survival and describe epidemiological features of patients receiving mechanical ventilation in the Intensive Care Units of Argentina.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ICU patients requiring Mechanical Ventilation at least for 12 hours
• ICU patients who initiate Mechanical Ventilation in the Operation Room or the Emergency Room
• ICU patients who initiate Mechanical Ventilation in other institution.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients under 18 years old
• Patients in Pediatric ICU
• Patients in Coronary ICU
• Patients without requirements of Mechanical Ventilation
• Patients who have been discharged from ICU and re-enter during the enrollment period

All adult patients who require mechanical ventilation for at least 12 hours in the argentinians ICU will be enrolled.