Predictors of early ICU re-admission, a retrospective observational case control study

<p dir="ltr"><b>Aim: </b>This study aimed to identify predictors of early ICU re-admission following discharge, considering the multifaceted nature of this phenomenon. <p dir="ltr"><b>Methods:</b> This retrospective observational case-control study was conducted, involving 51 patients (27 cases, 24 controls). The study assessed various parameters, including admission source, specialty, APACHE II scores, mechanical ventilation, vasopressor support, and CRRT. Data were collected at primary admission, discharge, and re-admission. <p dir="ltr"><b>Results:</b> The analysis revealed statistically significant associations between early re-admission and mechanical ventilation [71.4% of cases (n=20) versus 45.8% of controls (n=11), p = 0.039], vasopressor support [77.8% of cases (n=22) versus 50% of controls (n=12), p = 0.038], predicted mortality [Median predicted mortality was 25.5 for cases and only 7 for controls, p = 0.038], and length of stay [Median length of stay was 9.5 days for cases and 4 days for controls, p = 0.028]. Discharging patients on enteral nutrition significantly increased the likelihood of early re-admission [70.4% of cases (n=19) were discharged on enteral nutrition while only 20.8% of controls (n=5) were discharged on enteral nutrition, p<0.001]. Higher early warning scores at discharge were also linked to increased re-admission risk [Median early warning score was 6 in cases and 4 in controls, p = 0.016]. <p dir="ltr"><b>Discussion: </b>These findings underscore the importance of considering multiple clinical and physiological parameters in assessing and managing patients at risk for early ICU re-admission. The study contributes valuable insights for enhancing patient care and optimising discharge decision-making processes. However, this study is preliminary, highlighting the necessity for a larger case cohort and recommending a multicentre approach to validate and broaden the findings.