Resuscitation from shock

[0003] 1. Field of the Invention

[0004] The invention relates generally to the field of shock due to trauma. More particularly, the invention relates to the treatment of shock due to trauma. Specifically, a preferred implementation of the invention relates to protocols for the resuscitation of shock due to trauma or hemorrhage.

[0005] 2. Discussion of the Related Art

[0006] Shock resuscitation is generally thought to be an emergent, “seat of the pants” effort to regain some normal hemodynamic and physiologic function (e.g. blood pressure, urine output or normal serum lactate concentration) in a patient after her or she has suffered severe physical trauma.

[0007] Problems with current, commonly used traumatic shock resuscitation procedures involve lack of uniformity in recognition of shock, inadequacy of interventions for resuscitation, and inadequate monitoring of resuscitation response early in the clinical course, thus increasing the potential for undesirable consequences such as multiple organ failure (MOF) if resuscitation is inadequate.

[0008] One approach, in an attempt to solve such problems, involves treatment of a trauma patient by a team of medical professionals. This team is often multi-disciplinary so as to address the immediate and ongoing needs of a major trauma patient. However, a disadvantage of this approach is that its effectiveness is often limited by the conflicting directions and recipes for resuscitation early in the clinical course.

[0009] Another problem with current methods for treatment for shock due to trauma is that available procedures and treatments are variable from practitioner to practitioner. Based on each person's experience, variables and patient symptoms could be overlooked, and mistreatment of shock is more than just a possibility.

[0010] What is required is a decision support system for resuscitation of shock due to severe trauma that starts with uniform criteria to determine need for resuscitation. A strategy for monitoring and intervention is needed that specifically maintains resuscitation as a priority and uses measurements of specific variables that reliably indicate resuscitation status with thresholds for intervention. This system should be available to personnel such as the clinician at bedside to guide the resuscitation process.

[0011] There is a need for the following embodiments. Of course, the invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0012] In one respect, the invention involves a method of treating shock due to trauma or hemorrhage in a patient. A plurality of data elements representative of a condition of the patient are acquired, and shock in the patient is treated by following a step-by-step fixed protocol, which references the plurality of data elements.

[0013] In another respect, the invention involves a method for resuscitating a victim of shock. A risk of major organ failure is identified. Indices of peripheral perfusion deficit of the victim are determined. An oxygen delivery index of the victim is determined. The oxygen delivery index of the victim is compared to an oxygen delivery index threshold. If the oxygen delivery index of the victim is greater than or equal to the oxygen delivery index threshold: (a) the indices of peripheral perfusion deficit are compared with peripheral perfusion deficit thresholds and (b) resuscitation is ended if the indices of peripheral perfusion deficit meet the peripheral perfusion deficit thresholds. If the oxygen delivery index of the victim is less than the oxygen delivery index threshold: (a) hemoglobin concentration of the victim is compared with a hemoglobin concentration threshold, (b) one or more units of packed red blood cells is transfused if the hemoglobin concentration of the victim is less than the hemoglobin concentration threshold, (c) pulmonary artery wedge pressure of the victim is compared with a pulmonary artery wedge pressure threshold, (d) a volume loading protocol is administered if the pulmonary artery wedge pressure of the victim is less than the pulmonary artery wedge pressure threshold, (e) responses of the pulmonary artery wedge pressure and cardiac index of the victim are monitored to determine if the pulmonary artery wedge pressure and cardiac index are optimized, and (f) a Starling Challenge is administered if the pulmonary artery wedge pressure and cardiac index are not optimized.

[0014] In another respect, the invention involves a method for implementing a volume loading protocol for resuscitating a victim of shock. A first volume of Ringer's lactate bolus is administered to the victim. A change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure of the victim is determined in response to the administering of the first volume. A second volume of Ringer's lactate bolus is administered to the victim if the change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure is less than a first specified increment. The pulmonary artery wedge pressure of the victim is measured. A third volume of Ringer's lactate bolus is administered to the victim if the pulmonary artery wedge pressure of the victim is less than a second threshold.

[0015] In another respect, the invention involves a method for implementing a Starling Challenge for resuscitating a victim of shock due to trauma or hemorrhage. A first volume of solution is administered to the victim. A change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure of the victim is determined in response to the administering of the first volume. A second volume of the solution is administered to the victim if the change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure is less than a first specified increment. A change in cardiac index of the victim in response to the administering of the solution is determined. If the change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure is greater than or equal to the first specified increment and less than or equal to a second specified increment: (a) a third volume of the solution is administered to the victim if the change in cardiac index is greater than or equal to a third specified increment and (b) the protocol is ended if the change in cardiac index remains less than the third specified increment after two consecutive administrations of a fourth volume of the solution to the victim. If change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure is greater than the second specified increment: (a) a fifth volume of the solution is administered to the victim if the change in cardiac index is greater than or equal to a fourth specified increment and (b) the protocol is ended if the change in cardiac index remains less than the fourth specified increment after two consecutive administrations of a sixth volume of the solution to the victim.

[0016] In another respect, the invention involves a method for implementing a vasopressor and inotrope therapy for resuscitating a victim of shock. If mean arterial pressure of the victim is less than an arterial pressure threshold: (a) a vasopressor agent is administered at a first rate, (b) mean arterial pressure in response to the vasopressor agent is determined, and (c) the vasopressor agent is administered at a second rate, the second rate being greater than the first rate and less than a first maximum rate, until the mean arterial pressure meets or exceeds the arterial pressure threshold. If mean arterial pressure of the victim is greater than or equal to the arterial pressure threshold and an oxygen delivery index of the victim is less than an oxygen delivery index goal: (a) an inotrope agent is administered at a third rate, (b) hemodynamic performance in response to the inotrope agent is determined, and (c) the inotrope agent is administered at a fourth rate, the fourth rate being greater than the third rate and less than a second maximum rate, until the hemodynamic performance meets a hemodynamic performance goal.

[0017] In another respect, the invention involves software and/or specialized devices to implement the methods described herein.

[0018] These, and other, embodiments of the invention will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following description, while indicating various embodiments of the invention and numerous specific details thereof, is given by way of illustration and not of limitation.

[0019] The drawings accompanying and forming part of this specification are included to depict certain aspects of the invention. The invention may be better understood by reference to one or more of these drawings in combination with the description presented herein.

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a set of steps used to determine if a patient requires resuscitation of shock due to major trauma and the start of the resuscitation process, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates a set of steps in which a hemodynamic profile of the patient is obtained and assessed, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates a set of steps in which indices of peripheral perfusion deficit are obtained, assessed and recorded, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates instructions for checking blood hemoglobin concentration and oxygenation status, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0024] FIGS. 5a-5billustrate a chart in which hemoglobin concentration and oxygenation status are recorded, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0025] FIG. 6 illustrates instructions for monitoring pulmonary artery wedge pressure, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0026] FIG. 7 illustrates charts for the monitoring of pulmonary artery wedge pressure and cardiac output, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0027] FIG. 8 illustrates a process for monitoring systemic oxygen delivery, and the use of inotrope and vasopressor therapies, in accordance with embodiment of the invention.

[0028] FIG. 9 is a flowchart detailing a protocol for resuscitation of shock due to major torso trauma, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0029] FIG. 10 is a flowchart detailing monitoring of indices of peripheral deficit and abdominal compartment syndrome, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0030] FIG. 11 is a flowchart detailing the implementation of a Starling Challenge protocol to optimize cardiac performance, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0031] FIG. 12 is a flowchart detailing the implementation of an intravenous fluid volume loading protocol, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0032] FIG. 13 is a flowchart detailing the implementation of inotrope and vasopressor therapies, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0033] As used herein, the words below should be interpreted in accordance with this glossary, which provides definitions and/or context.

[0034] ABG: arterial blood gas analysis, typically pH, PCO₂, PO₂, HCO₃—, BD, SaO₂at 37 C. (body temp), where pH is whole blood acid base balance, PCO₂is partial pressure carbon dioxide, PO₂is partial pressure oxygen, HCO₃— is bicarbonate activity (calculated), BD is base deficit (calculated), SaO₂(see above), measured in arterial blood sample using clinical laboratory instrument.

[0035] bladder pressure, urinary bladder pressure: reflecting intra abdominal (peritoneal) pressure

[0036] bolus: volume of fluid, blood or drug given rapidly

[0037] CI: cardiac index, measured using pulmonary artery catheter and thermal dilution volumetric flow rate technology (cardiac index is cardiac output divided by body surface area)

[0038] Hb: hemoglobin concentration, measured in blood sample using clinical laboratory instrument, preferably at bedside

[0039] lactate or lactic acid concentration: measured in arterial blood sample using clinical laboratory instrument

[0040] LR: lactated Ringer's solution, an IV fluid in wide use for 50+years

[0041] MAP: mean arterial pressure

[0042] PAWP: pulmonary artery wedge pressure (also PCWP, pulmonary artery capillary pressure, or PAOP, PA occlusion pressure), measured using pulmonary artery catheter extending through right heart with distal end in a branch of the pulmonary artery, occluded by manually inflating small balloon and measuring resulting pressure at the distal tip of the catheter.

[0043] PRBC: packed red blood cells, a component of whole blood (the red blood cells plus some plasma)

[0044] PrCO₂: PCO₂of the interstitium of the gastric mucosa (lining of stomach)

[0045] SaO₂: arterial hemoglobin oxygen saturation, measured in blood sample using clinical laboratory instrument

[0046] SpO₂: arterial hemoglobin oxygen saturation, measured using pulse oximetry noninvasively with probe usually attached to finger tip

[0047] SVRI: Systemic Vascular Resistance Index. SVRI is representative of the force that the left heart must pump against in order to deliver the stroke volume into the periphery. SVRI is directly proportional to blood pressure and indirectly proportional to blood flow.

[0048] SVRI is “indexed” to a patient's body size via Body Surface Area (BSA).

[0049] Tx: therapy

[0050] The invention and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the nonlimiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Various substitutions, modifications, additions and/or rearrangements within the spirit and/or scope of the underlying inventive concept will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

[0051] In general, the invention can include a protocol process for shock resuscitation of all patients who have sustained severe trauma to the torso and/or extremities, but not necessarily severe closed head injury (traumatic brain injury). The invention can also include a computerized implementation to direct the shock protocol monitoring and treatment process.

[0052] Shock due to trauma and loss of blood is known to be a high risk factor for multiple organ failure (MOF) and death. Shock must be reversed as soon as possible to minimize these risks. As such, prompt and specific resuscitation is required.

[0053] Resuscitation of shock due to major trauma in general is controversial and confusing for clinicians (i.e. physicians, nurses, or other caregivers at bedside) without a focused, directed protocol process. The process must be in measured response to the individual patient's needs.

[0054] A way to implement a preferred process at bedside is to have clinicians use an interactive computer application for this aspect of care that comprises the rules and their sequence of application and that requests specific, critical, timely measurements as input and presents specific, timely, executable instructions for intervention and monitoring in response.

[0055] The application is necessarily based on a detailed clinical logic model for the care process.

[0056] Early management of a severe trauma victim can be more confusing for the bedside clinician than it is for other patients in that many aspects of care must be addressed simultaneously and immediately. With identification of necessary measurements and interventions in timely, appropriate sequence, and with appropriate implementation as a focused, defined protocol for the bedside clinician, it has been demonstrated that shock resuscitation processes and implementations as a clinical process described herein are feasible and practical.

[0057] In one embodiment, computerized logic for shock resuscitation may be used to direct bedside decision making. One embodiment involves several sequential, hierarchical therapies with intervention thresholds to increase DO₂I (oxygen delivery index) to a specified goal (DO²I≧600 mL/min-m²for age<65 years; DO₂I≧500 mL/min-m²for age≧65 years) for 24 hours. Five exemplary therapies are: 1) replace hemoglobin (PRBC); 2) maintain vascular volume (LR (lactated Ringer's solution)); 3) optimize CI-PCWP (Starling Challenge); 4) inotrope (dobutamine, milrinone); and 5) vasopressor (norepinephrine).

[0058] The computerized protocol, an embodiment of the present disclosure, generates patient specific instructions for intervention and monitoring in response to bedside PC (personal computer) entry of requested data by the critical care nurse or physician. The clinicians' attention is directed to a certain set of reliably measurable variables in a timely fashion and specific timely instructions are provided for interventions that are calibrated to the individual patient's requirements. These variables respond to intervention as prescribed by the protocol. The resuscitation process is applicable to, for example, patients with severe injury, blood loss and metabolic stress excluding those with concomitant severe closed head injury.

[0059] In one embodiment, a paper implementation may be used, rather than a computerized implementation. When the results from computerized and paper implementations were compared, the group using the computer implementation required less PRBC transfusion and LR than did the group using the paper implementation. This suggests improved efficacy with the computerized decision support, although the paper implementation remains useful and represents an advancement over the prior art.

[0060] The terms “a” or “an”, as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality”, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another”, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having”, as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “program” or phrase “computer program”, as used herein, is defined as machine readable media encoded with a sequence of instructions designed for execution on a computer system. A “program”, or “computer program”, may include a subroutine, a function, a procedure, an object method, an object implementation, an executable application, an applet, a servlet, a source code, an object code, a shared library/dynamic load library and/or other sequence of instructions designed for execution on a computer system.

[0061] Specific embodiments of the invention will now be further described by the following, nonlimiting examples which will serve to illustrate various features in detail. The following examples are included to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the invention may be practiced. It should be appreciated that the examples which follow represent embodiments discovered to function well in the practice of the invention, and thus can be considered to constitute specific albeit non-limiting modes for the practice of the invention.

[0062] In a broad implementation, an embodiment of this disclosure involves a method of treating shock in a patient in which a plurality of data elements representative of a condition of the patient are acquired, and shock in the patient is then treated by following a step-by-step fixed protocol, which references the plurality of data elements.

[0063] In another embodiment, risk of multiple organ failure is determined by specific severe injuries, blood loss requiring transfusion of specified blood volume, and metabolic stress indicated by a specified arterial base deficit. Indices of peripheral perfusion deficit of the patient are determined within a specified time interval after adequate hemodynamic performance is attained. Hemodynamic performance, e.g. (but not limited to) oxygen delivery index, is determined and compared to a specified protocol goal, and interventions are administered when needed to maintain the specified hemodynamic performance. For example, if the oxygen delivery index of the patient is greater than or equal to the specified oxygen delivery index goal: (a) the indices of peripheral perfusion deficit are compared with peripheral perfusion deficit normal ranges and with the previous measurements and (b) resuscitation proceeds with monitoring within a specified time interval if the indices of peripheral perfusion deficit are within normal limits and not worsening. If the oxygen delivery index of the patient is less than the oxygen delivery index goal: (a) hemoglobin concentration of the patient's blood is compared with a hemoglobin concentration threshold for intervention, (b) one or more units of packed red blood cells is specified to be transfused if the hemoglobin concentration is less than the hemoglobin concentration threshold, (c) as an indicator of vascular volume, pulmonary artery wedge pressure of the patient is compared with a pulmonary artery wedge pressure threshold for intervention, (d) one or more liters of intravenous fluid are infused using a intravenous volume loading algorithm if the pulmonary artery wedge pressure of the patient is less than the pulmonary artery wedge pressure threshold, and/or (e) additional incremental volume loading is administered using a Starling Challenge algorithm to optimize cardiac performance. The resuscitation continues for a specified time with iterative application of the above described protocol and component algorithms.

[0064] Another embodiment involves a method for implementing a volume loading algorithm for administration of specified intravenous fluid volume as a component of the resuscitation process for shock due to major trauma. Based on specified measurements and determination of inadequate hemodynamic performance, a first specified unit volume of specified intravenous fluid is infused to the patient in bolus fashion. (i.e. rapidly). As a measure of vascular volume deficiency, a change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure is determined in response to infusion of the first volume. A second unit volume of intravenous fluid is infused if the change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure is less than the specified increment. The pulmonary artery wedge pressure is measured again. Prior to administration of a third bolus volume, hemoglobin concentration is measured and hemodynamic performance is measured. If hemodynamic performance is inadequate, i.e. less than the specified goal, then a third and, if necessary, fourth (or more) volume(s) of intravenous fluid is infused according the process described above until the pulmonary artery wedge pressure of the patient meets or exceeds a second specified threshold for the subsequent therapy intervention.

[0065] Another embodiment involves a method for implementing a Starling Challenge algorithm for incremental administration of intravenous fluid volume as a component of the resuscitation process for shock due to major trauma. Based on specified measurements, including pulmonary artery wedge pressure equal to or greater than a specified threshold and cardiac index, and determination of (inadequate) hemodynamic performance less that the specified goal, a first specified unit volume of a specified intravenous fluid is infused in bolus fashion. A change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure is determined in response. A second, third, or more bolus volumes of IV fluid is infused if, after each bolus, the change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure is less than a specified increment. When the change in PAWP equals or exceeds the specified increment, a change in cardiac index is determined in response to the IV bolus infusion(s) within 5 minutes of completion of the last bolus infusion. An increase, decrease or lack of significant change of cardiac index is used to determine need for an additional IV fluid bolus and the volume of the additional IV fluid bolus. In response to IV fluid bolus infusions, if the changes in CI are successive significant increases, then additional IV fluid boluses are indicated. If the change in CI is insignificant or a significant decrease, then the last CI-PAWP measurements are taken as optimal. In response to an IV fluid bolus infusion, if the change in pulmonary artery wedge pressure is greater than a second specified increment (greater than the 1^stspecified increment), then IV fluid volume bolus size is decreased for successive bolus infusions as described above. Once optimal CI-PAWP is determined, this PAWP is maintained as the indicator of vascular volume to be maintained for the remaining duration of the resuscitation process.

[0066] Another embodiment involves a method for implementing cardiac inotrope and/or vasopressor therapy as a component of the resuscitation process for shock due to major trauma. If mean arterial pressure of the victim is less than a specified threshold: (a) a vasopressor agent is specified and administered intravenously at a specified initial infusion rate as a first intervention, (b) in response to the vasopressor agent infusion, mean arterial pressure is measured and compared to the specified threshold, and (c) if mean arterial pressure is less than the specified threshold, the infusion rate of the vasopressor agent is increased incrementally to a rate less than or equal to a maximum rate specified for the vasopressor agent, or until the mean arterial pressure equals or exceeds the specified threshold for vasopressor intervention. After two increments, hemodynamic performance, including hemoglobin concentration, is determined. If mean arterial pressure is greater than or equal to the specified threshold but hemodynamic performance is determined to be less than a specified performance goal: (a) a cardiac inotrope agent is specified and administered intravenously at a specified infusion rate, (b) hemodynamic performance in response to the inotrope agent infusion is determined, and (c) if hemodynamic performance is less than the specified goal, the infusion rate of the inotrope agent is increased incrementally to a rate less than or equal to a maximum rate specified for the inotrope agent, or until the hemodynamic performance equals or exceeds the specified threshold for (inotrope) intervention. Inotrope and/or vasopressor infusion rates needed to equal or exceed the hemodynamic performance goal and/or the mean arterial pressure threshold are maintained throughout the resuscitation process.

[0067] FIGS. 1 through 8 illustrate the steps of a paper protocol implementation, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. This particular embodiment includes explanation of the terminology and methodology of the shock resuscitation protocol, which may be provided to clinicians in other ways using electronic media.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 1, to require shock resuscitation and hemodynamic monitoring directed by the protocol, the patient should have certain conditions resulting from major trauma described as specific criteria set forth in a check list. The attending physician should anticipate the patient will need six or more units of PRBC in the next 12 hours, should determine that the patient's arterial base deficit is 6 mEq/L or greater soon after hospital admission, and that the patient has a sustained major injury. If these criteria are not clearly met, resuscitation using the subject protocol can be undertaken, but in the experience of the inventors, few or no interventions may be required. Patients who do meet the above criteria are at risk of multiple organ failure (MOF) without prompt, effective resuscitation as the protocol directed resuscitation provides. This has been shown in studies involving retrospective analysis of data obtained prospectively from hundreds of major trauma patients.

[0069] If it is determined by the attending trauma surgeon that the patient meets the major trauma criteria, or blood loss requiring transfusion of at least 6 units PRBC, and metabolic stress is indicated by arterial BD of at least 6 mEq/L, or the patient is 65 years or older with any 2 of the previous criteria, or the attending trauma surgeon believes that shock resuscitation is required in absence of objective determination of the criteria, then the decision may be made by the attending trauma surgeon to resuscitate using the standardized protocol described herein.

[0070] Depicted in FIG. 1 are the indications (criteria) for resuscitation and instructions for placement of necessary monitors and acquisition of samples for clinical chemical analysis as the start of the resuscitation protocol. The instructions clearly state the recommended monitoring interventions and the variables to be monitored. FIG. 2 shows a data record table for the clinician to record hemodynamic measurements as a profile describing performance at intervals not to exceed 4 hours.

[0071] FIG. 3 shows the next step in this embodiment of the invention. In this step, the indices of peripheral perfusion deficit are measured and recorded. The variables that are measured and recorded include arterial base deficit (BD), serum lactate concentration (lactate), gastric mucosa regional PCO₂(PrCO₂or PrCO₂), regional minus end tidal PCO₂difference (PrCO₂−ETCO₂; “gap”).

[0072] If the indices are normal and, if previous data had been obtained for comparison, not worsening, then the clinician would repeat the steps in FIG. 3 within 4 hours to reassess the perfusion deficit. If the indices were abnormal or worsening compared to previously obtained data, the attending physician is notified by the bedside clinician if not the physician is not present.

[0073] If the DO₂I were determined to be less than the specified goal, the steps shown in FIG. 4 are directed. The first step is to check the hemoglobin concentration (Hb). If the Hb is less than the specified threshold, then a transfusion of PRBC is performed, and Hb is then remeasured to determine if the threshold has been met or exceeded by the transfusion intervention, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0074] However, in the case that Hb is greater than or equal to a specified threshold and that the PAWP (pulmonary artery wedge pressure) is less than a specified threshold, volume loading with Ringer's lactate crystalloid solution (LR) bolus(es) is administered. The steps for volume loading are described in FIG. 4. Repetition of LR bolus infusion is administered if the PAWP has not increased to the specified threshold.

[0075] All of these interventions are to be recorded in sequence much like the table shown in FIG. 5aand FIG. 5b.

[0076] Unfortunately, in patients undergoing shock resuscitation, PAWP may not accurately reflect volume status due to increased left ventricular compliance and due to increased intra-thoracic pressure with positive pressure mechanical ventilation, as described in FIG. 6. In fact, increasing PAWP may not increase the cardiac index, according to the Frank-Starling mechanism, and might be detrimental to the patient, causing progressive myocardial dysfunction or excessive interstitial edema.

[0077] In response to this situation, a method for incremental volume loading is detailed in FIG. 6, wherein for each volume increment, response of the heart is measured, and the optimal performance detected. The charts to record and analyze these data are shown in FIG. 7.

[0078] After obtaining the optimal cardiac performance through incremental increase of PAWP, if DO₂I is less than the specified goal, and one or more indices of peripheral perfusion deficit persist, then infusion of an inotropic agent is performed, as shown in FIG. 8. Incremental increase of infusion rate is implemented to a maximum dose rate, with determination of DO₂I after each increment.

[0079] If the DO₂I still remains below the specified goal despite the inotrope infusion at the maximal rate, or if mean arterial blood pressure decreases below a specified threshold, infusion of a vasopressor agent, preferably an inotropic agent with vasoconstrictive effects, is administered, with similar incremental increase of infusion rate to regain blood pressure, cardiac index and attain the specified DO₂I goal. The chart for recording the administered dosages and the patient's information is also shown in FIG. 8.

[0080] Another embodiment of the invention is computerized protocol logic, with, for example, logic flow diagrams displayed as shown in FIGS. 9-13. Instead of medical personnel transcribing measurements; monitoring data, intervention and associated times manually as seen in Example 1, this embodiment allows the user to input the information as it is requested, and the protocol logic may be executed by a computer program, or other device running or displaying the protocol, at bedside or on-location.

[0081] FIG. 9 shows an overview of computerized logic for a shock resuscitation protocol that may be used by bedside clinicians to direct shock resuscitation at patient bedside, for example, in an ICU. Similar to the paper implementation, criteria determining need for hemodynamic monitoring and shock resuscitation are determined using a computerized checklist. If the criteria are met, then necessary monitors are placed and the protocol is started. The protocol is initiated with measurements of the variables that comprise the patient's DO₂I and its calculation. If DO₂I is greater than the specified goal, then the protocol prompts the bedside clinician for the assessment of peripheral perfusion deficit, i.e. determination of BD, measurement of lactate, recording of PrCO₂, and measurement of urinary bladder pressure, shown in more detail in FIG. 10. If the patient's DO₂I meets or exceeds the specified goal but Hb is less than a specified threshold, e.g. <9, then the protocol will instruct the clinician to transfuse a certain number of units of PRBC that should increase Hb to a specified threshold, e.g. >=10 g/dL (>=12 for a patient of age 65 or greater), and for remeasurement of Hb to confirm that Hb is equal to or greater than the specified threshold after the transfusion intervention.

[0082] Once the measurement of BD, lactate, PrCO₂, and bladder pressure has been completed and the data entered, these data are compared with normal ranges and with previous data to determine if these variables are normal and/or improved. If the variables are normal and/or improved then the amount of time since the start of the protocol is determined. If 24 hours have passed since the start of the resuscitation protocol, then the protocol ends. If it has not been 24 hours and perfusion deficit data are normal and/or improved, then reassessment of the patient's hemodynamic performance, i.e determination of DO₂I, is performed within 4 hours.

[0083] However, if the measurements of BD, lactate, PrCO₂, and urinary bladder pressure are not normal or/and are increasing (worsening), then an attending physician is notified. If hemodynamic instability due to ongoing blood or vascular volume loss is assessed, then immediate measurement of Hb, and, if greater than specified threshold, then PAWP measurement and possible volume load and/or Starling Challenge interventions may be utilized, following the protocol logic.

[0084] If DO₂I is determined to be less than the specified goal, and Hb is less than the specified threshold, then the protocol calls for the transfusion of sufficient units of PRBC to meet or exceed the specified threshold. Once this intervention is complete, remeasurement of Hb, CI, and SO₂is performed and DO₂I is determined. If DO₂I equals or exceeds the specified goal, then reassessment of perfusion deficit status is performed, as above. If DO₂I does not equal or exceed the specified goal and Hb does equal or exceed its specified threshold, then PAWP measurement is performed to assess vascular volume status. If PAWP is less than the specified threshold, then volume loading is performed by administering LR bolus(es), according to specific protocol logic to rapidly increase vascular volume. The vascular volume may be indirectly monitored as PAWP, and cause CI to increase, as shown above. If DO₂I<300 mL/min/m²or CI<2.5 L/min/m², then a 1 liter LR bolus is administered prior to Hb measurement.

[0085] If PAWP >=15 mmHg, then optimization using specific Starling Challenge logic (logic for generation of a Starling curve) is undertaken, an example of which is shown in FIG. 11. The optimal PAWP so determined then becomes the threshold for volume loading and/or inotrope therapy for the duration of the protocol. If PAWP and CI had been optimized previously using the protocol, but DO₂I were less than the specified goal, then an inotrope agent is administered, with notification of an attending physician. If the attending physician confirms the protocol instruction for inotrope therapy, then a specific inotrope agent is administered using appropriate loading dose and infusion rate. Inotrope infusion is instructed to be set at a specific rate, the effect of this intervention measured by determination of DO₂I, and, if not equal to or greater than specified goal, infusion rate increment is implemented. If inotrope therapy is maximized or if MAP is less than a specified threshold, e.g. 65 mmHg, then vasopressor infusion is instructed by the protocol, with increments to obtain DO₂I response to the specified goal. If the inotrope/vasopressor is not effective in increasing DO₂I response to the specified goal, or is not confirmed by a physician order, then a cardiology consult and trans-esophageal echocardiography are suggested as an option to facilitate diagnosis of a cardiac problem.

[0086] Any of the protocol generated instructions can be declined by the bedside clinician. The reason for not using the protocol directed process may be requested at the time an instruction is declined. The protocol may be suspended by the attending physician for a clinically credible reason. The protocol can be restarted within the 24 hour duration.

[0087] FIGS. 10-13 are self-explanatory and are component embodiments of the invention, showing decision, instruction and data acquisition nodes associated with peripheral perfusion deficit assessment and volume loading, Starling Challenge (Starling curve generation), and inotrope and/or vasopressor interventions. These connect with respective reference nodes of FIG. 9. FIG. 10 illustrates the procedures and steps for measuring the indices of peripheral deficit and detection of abdominal compartment syndrome. FIG. 11 shows logic for the Starling curve generation. FIG. 12 illustrates the volume load logic. FIG. 13 is the logic for vasopressor and inotrope therapy.

[0088] A practical application of the invention that has value within the technological arts is as an accepted protocol used in trauma ICUs. Further, the invention is useful in conjunction with various other trauma management settings within a hospital. There are virtually innumerable uses for the invention; in fact, any application in which resuscitation of shock due to trauma or hemorrhage is involved may benefit from the techniques of this disclosure.

[0089] One application of the methods of this disclosure involves computer software. In particular, any of the methods described and/or illustrated herein may be implemented in computer software in whole or in part. Such software may benefit not only doctors, but also any bedside attending personnel. Relatedly, any of the techniques described and/or illustrated herein may be incorporated (in whole or in part) into one or more apparatuses designed to assist in the resuscitation of shock. For instance, the techniques of this disclosure could be implemented into hardware and/or software configured to run on a stand-alone shock treatment device. Such a device, in one embodiment, could include a monitor, one or more confirmation buttons, a printer, or other accessories as needed. The device could prompt the user to follow the steps of one or more protocols described herein to treat a victim of shock. This type of stand-alone device may prove useful in several different areas including but not limited to airlines, military, hospitals, and the like.

[0090] A computerized protocol for the resuscitation of shock due to trauma, representing an embodiment of the invention, can be advantageous for at least the following reasons. The invention involves specific shock, blood loss, and injury criteria for resuscitation to be necessary, thereby targeting those most severely injured patients as those most likely to benefit from comprehensive hemodynamic monitoring and intervention. During the protocol process, instructions for monitoring and/or intervention are in timely and calibrated response to the patient's immediate condition. The protocol process keeps the bedside clinician(s) focused on shock resuscitation as a priority, and provides one practicable, efficacious strategy, eliminating the common confusion associated with resuscitation of shock due to major (torso) trauma.

[0091] All the disclosed embodiments of the invention disclosed herein can be made and used without undue experimentation in light of the disclosure. The invention is not limited by theoretical statements recited herein. With the benefit of the present disclosure, those having skill in the art will comprehend that techniques claimed herein and described above may be modified, achieving the same or a similar result. The claims attached hereto cover all such modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

[0092] Each of the following references is hereby incorporated in its entirety.

[0093] 1. U.S. Pat. No. 6,148,814

[0094] 2. Van Nostrand's Scientific Encyclopedia, 8th ed., Van Nostrand Reinhold, (Douglas M. Considine et al. eds.), 1995.

[0095] 3. The Electrical Engineering Handbook, CRC Press, (Richard C. Dorf et al. eds.), 1993.

[0096] 4. B A McKinley, R M Sailors, S L Glorsky, C S Cocanour, A Marquez, R M Kozar, D N Ware, F A Moore. Computer directed resuscitation of major torso trauma. 24^thAnnual Conference on Shock, Marco Island Fla., Jun 9-12 2001. Shock 2001; 15(supplement):46.

[0097] 5. B A McKinley, R G Marvin, C S Cocanour, R M Pousman, D N Ware, F A Moore. Nitroprusside in resuscitation of major torso trauma. Journal of Trauma: Injury, Infection and Critical Care 2000;49(6):1089-1095.

[0098] 6. B A McKinley, R G Marvin, C S Cocanour, D N Ware, F A Moore. Blunt trauma resuscitation: The old can respond. Archives of Surgery 2000;135:688-695.

[0099] 7. B A McKinley, R G Marvin, C S Cocanour, F A Moore. Tissue hemoglobin oxygen saturation during resuscitation of traumatic shock monitored using NIR spectrometry. Journal of Trauma: Injury, Infection and Critical Care 2000;48(4):637-642.

[0100] 8. Sauaia A, Moore F A, Moore EE, et al. Multiple organ failure can be predicted as early as 12 hours postinjury. J Trauma 1998;45:291.

[0101] 9. Sauaia A, Moore F A, Moore EE, et al. Early risk factors for postinjury multiple organ failure. World J Surg 1996;20:392.

[0102] 10. Morris AH. Algorithm based decision making. In Tobin M J, ed. Principles and Practice of Intensive Care Monitoring. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1997: pp. 1355-1381.

[0103] 11. Clemmer T P, Spuhler V J. Developing and gaining acceptance for patient care protocols. New Horizons 1998;6(1):12-19.