Guidelines for Care of Critically Ill Adult Patients with COVID-19 in the Americas. Summary, version 3

Abstract

This publication provides recommendations for the management of critically ill adult patients with COVID-19 being treated in intensive care units (ICUs) in the Americas. These clinical practice guidelines provide evidence-informed recommendations for identifying markers and mortality risk factors in critically ill patients, as well as infection control, sample collection, supportive care (respiratory and hemodynamic), pharmacological treatment, early rehabilitation, diagnostic imaging use, prevention of complications, and discharge requirements. The recommendations are for all health care staff caring for patients in emergency departments and ICUs. These guidelines are also intended for use by decisionmakers and government entities involved in the management of patients with COVID-19 in ICUs in the Region of the Americas. This publication is the result of a rapid guideline development process. Base on the GRADE methodology, the recommendations reflect published evidence as at the date of inclusion in the document. The Pan American Health Organization will periodically update the applicable recommendations.