OBJECTIVE In Brazil, there are no data on the preferences of intensivists regarding hemodynamic monitoring methods. The present study aimed to identify the methods used by national intensivists, the hemodynamic variables they consider important, the regional differences, the reasons for choosing a particular method, and the use of protocols and continued training. METHODS National intensivist...

PURPOSE OF REVIEW To reiterate the necessity of integrating echocardiography in the management of shocked patients and to propose a step-by-step functional evaluation of hemodynamics proven to optimize hemodynamic monitoring and to adapt the treatment. RECENT FINDINGS Echocardiography has become the cornerstone to hemodynamic monitoring. By providing real-time images, echocardiography has the...

Hemodynamic monitoring is a tool of great value for the assessment of critically ill patients. It can not only detect and determine the source of hemodynamic instability, but also guide the choice of appropriate treatment and further evaluate its effectiveness. However, monitoring per se is not a therapeutic tool and its use in the absence of a well-defined objective, need not affect patient ou...

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY Critical care in obstetrics has many similarities in pathophysiology to the care of nonpregnant women. However, changes in the physiology of pregnant woman necessary to maintain homeostasis for both mother and fetus, especially during critical illness, result in complex pathophysiology. Understanding the normal physiologic changes during pregnancy, intrapartum, and postpartum is...