Determinants of mortality of non-ventilated patients admitted to ICU at selective hospitals of Nepal: A Secondary data analysis_Data

This study explored why non-ventilated patients in Nepalese ICUs face a significant risk of death. Using data from over 13,000 patients across 14 hospitals (2019–2022), researchers found an overall mortality rate of 11.1%. Patients who died were generally older and more likely to have serious conditions such as respiratory disease, hypertension, diabetes, kidney failure requiring dialysis, or liver disease. Key treatment-related factors like use of antibiotics, cardiovascular support, vasoactive therapy, ICU readmission, and unplanned admissions were also linked to higher mortality. Additionally, patients admitted from the operating theater had the greatest risk, while planned or ward admissions had better outcomes. The findings suggest that both the patient’s underlying health and the circumstances of ICU admission play crucial roles in survival. Strengthening monitoring of high-risk patients, ensuring safer discharge and readmission processes, and improving perioperative care could help reduce ICU deaths in Nepal.