Background: Electrolyte disturbances are common in critically ill patients and are associated with increased morbidity, prolonged ICU stay, and mortality. Understanding their prevalence, patterns, and predictors is essential for timely intervention. Objective: To evaluate the incidence, patterns, risk factors, and outcomes associated with electrolyte disturbances in ICU patients. Methods 95% CI 1.5–6.8), diuretic use (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.2–5.9), and higher APACHE II score (OR 1.1 per point; 95% CI 1.02–1.18) as independent predictors of electrolyte imbalance. Patients with multiple electrolyte disturbances had significantly longer ICU stays (median 12 vs. 7 days, p<0.05) and higher mortality (28.5% vs. 7.1%, p<0.01). Conclusion: Electrolyte disturbances are highly prevalent in ICU patients and are associated with worse outcomes. Early identification of high-risk patients, close monitoring, and prompt correction of abnormalities may improve prognosis in critically ill populations.
Hossain et al. (Wed,) studied this question.