The XXXX : impact on the pediatric intensive care unit.

@entity1 @entity791 @entity66 @entity326
Increasing numbers of @entity1 and @entity1 with @entity791 are being admitted to the PICU, especially in certain geographic areas. Clear diagnostic criteria are available to aid in the diagnosis. As many as 50 per cent of these @entity1 may be first diagnosed with @entity791 during their PICU stay. Most @entity1 are admitted because of ARF, but @entity326 are also common. Acute PICU mortality is in excess of 80 per cent, and presently the long-term mortality for this syndrome stands at 100 per cent. The economic impact of this epidemic is enormous and may become catastrophic if a national strategy to deal with these costs is not developed promptly. The PICU has an important role both in terms of resource use and cost containment. Awareness of unique stresses on medical and nursing staff caring for these @entity1 , as well as the unique psychoemotional needs of the @entity1 themselves, is vital. Specific infection control, nutritional, and medical-legal strategies will facilitate safe, effective delivery of care to these @entity1 and @entity1 in the PICU. The appropriate long-term role of the PICU in the care of @entity1 with an ultimately @entity66 has yet to be determined.
