ARDS Caused by COVID-19

Main Features and Ventilatory Management of Patients With ARDS Caused by COVID-19

Patients with the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) have markedly varied clinical presentations. Main characteristics of mechanically ventilated ARDS caused by COVID-19, and adherence to lung-protective ventilation strategies are not well known.

This is a multicenter, prospective, observational study in consecutive, mechanically ventilated patients with ARDS caused by COVID-19 (as defined by the Berlin criteria and confirmed COVID-19 infection in a respiratory tract sample), admitted into a network of 27 Spanish and Andorran intensive care units (ICUs). Clinical features, ventilatory management, and clinical outcomes will be examined

Inclusion Criteria:

• aged 18 years or older
• intubated and mechanically ventilated
• confirmed COVID-19 infection in a respiratory tract sample
• acute onset of ARDS, as defined by the Berlin criteria

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients with non-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection according to WHO guidance
• patients with no information on respiratory parameters
• non- intubated patients