Gonzalez Catan

Researchers are evaluating an organ dysfunction scoring system adapted specifically for pregnant and early postpartum patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs). The study aims to develop and validate this obstetric SOFA score (SOFA-OBS) to better predict ICU mortality and sepsis-related mortality in this group. The current general SOFA score does not account for physiological changes during pregnancy and early postpartum, such as reduced creatinine levels and lower blood pressure, which may affect its accuracy in these patients. This study will include about 130 female participants who are either pregnant at any stage or within three days after giving birth and require ICU care. The study will use the new SOFA-OBS score that adjusts kidney and cardiovascular measures to reflect pregnancy changes and simplifies respiratory function evaluation by using a non-invasive pulse oximeter when arterial blood gases are unavailable. The original neurologic, liver, and platelet assessments remain unchanged. Researchers will collect data routinely gathered during ICU care without additional interventions. They will track SOFA and SOFA-OBS scores daily during ICU stays, up to discharge or death, focusing on the first 24 and 48 hours, and assess various organ functions and sepsis definitions adapted to pregnancy stages. Participants will be monitored throughout their ICU stay with data recorded on organ function, infection status, interventions, and outcomes. The study will compare SOFA-OBS with the general SOFA score for predicting mortality and sepsis outcomes. Data collection will include laboratory tests, vital signs, and clinical assessments using standardized forms and electronic systems. Safety and privacy will be maintained, and consent obtained before participation. The total duration depends on ICU stay, with daily evaluations until discharge or death, or up to 28 days post-enrollment for mortality outcomes.