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Chapter 33 - Generalized Weakness in the Neurocritical Care Unit

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  24 July 2019

By
Farrukh S. Chaudhry  and
Edward M. Manno
Edited by
Michel T. Torbey
Michel T. Torbey
Affiliation:
Ohio State University
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Summary

One of the most frequent neurological consultations in any medical or surgical intensive care unit (ICU) is for generalized weakness. Patients admitted to ICUs may have a number of factors leading to neuromuscular problems, including metabolic derangements, nutritional deficiencies, acquired diseases, and structural problems of the neuromuscular system. Weakness in the setting of a critically ill patient can have profound effects on patient morbidity and mortality with increased length of hospital stay, medical complications, and cost [1]. In this chapter we have highlighted the various causes of generalized weakness in ICU patients, and the diagnostic approach and management of these illnesses.

Type
Chapter
Information
Neurocritical Care , pp. 397 - 403
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2019

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