Development of a triage protocol for critical care during an influenza pandemic.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The recent outbreaks of avian influenza (H5N1) have placed a renewed emphasis on preparing for an influenza pandemic in humans. Of particular concern in this planning is the allocation of resources, such as ventilators and antiviral medications, which will likely become scarce during a pandemic.

Methods

We applied a collaborative process using best evidence, expert panels, stakeholder consultations and ethical principles to develop a triage protocol for prioritizing access to critical care resources, including mechanical ventilation, during a pandemic.

Results

The triage protocol uses the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score and has 4 main components: inclusion criteria, exclusion criteria, minimum qualifications for survival and a prioritization tool.

SUBMITTER: Christian MD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1635763 | biostudies-literature | 2006 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature