Clinical outcomes and associated factors among mechanically ventilated patients in adult intensive care unit at Jimma Medical Center, Southwest Ethiopia, 2024

BACKGROUND: Mechanical ventilation (MV) is a life‑saving intervention for patients unable to maintain adequate oxygenation or ventilation. However, MV is also associated with complications such as ventilator‑associated pneumonia, lung injury, and prolonged ICU stay, which may increase morbidity and mortality. Previous studies in Ethiopia and the region are limited and do not fully address key predictors of clinical outcomes among mechanically ventilated patients. Objective: To assess clinical outcomes and associated factors among mechanically ventilated patients in adult intensive care units at Jimma Medical Center, Southwest Ethiopia, and in2024. METHODS: A retrospective cross‑sectional study was conducted among 411 randomly selected medical records of mechanically ventilated adult patients. Data were extracted using a structured and pretested tool. Statistical analysis included bivariable and multivariable logistic regression. Variables with p < 0.25 were entered into the multivariable model, and statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05. Adjusted Odds Ratios (AORs) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were reported. RESULTS: Of the 411 reviewed patient charts, 215 (52.3%) were male with a mean age of 36.9 ± 16.2 years. The overall mortality rate was 54% (95% CI: 49.4-58.6). Significant predictors of mortality included hospital stay > 5 days before intubation (AOR = 3.03, 95% CI: 1.05-6.09), re‑intubation (AOR = 9.02, 95% CI: 4.07-20.01), presence of comorbidities (AOR = 9.12, 95% CI: 4.38-18.99), development of complications (AOR = 6.84, 95% CI: 3.15-14.81), multi‑organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) (AOR = 3.48, 95% CI: 1.47-7.82), and use of sedation (AOR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.18-0.74). CONCLUSION: Mechanically ventilated patients at Jimma Medical Center experience a high mortality rate. Key determinants of mortality were re‑intubation, comorbidities, complications, MODS, and delayed intubation. Improving ICU protocols, early identification of high‑risk patients, proper monitoring, and prevention of unplanned extubation may improve survival outcomes.