Validity and Execution of Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis in Surgical Patients: A Single-Center, Retrospective Cohort Analysis in Islamabad, Pakistan
Abstract
Introduction: Stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) is recommended in critically ill patients to prevent stress-related mucosal damage, however, there is inconsistent adherence to established standards and guidelines for those who receive SUP medications outside of this patient group. The present study aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of SUP medications for surgical patients at the tertiary care hospital in Islamabad, Pakistan. Methodology: A 1-year, retrospective cohort study was conducted, using a convenience sampling approach, involving patients undergoing surgical procedures at the Surgical Wards of a tertiary care hospital located in Islamabad. Data collection was performed using a pre-designed checklist, with main areas including demographic characteristics, data on their presenting complaint, SUP medications (dosage, route of administration and duration) and presence of stress ulcer risk factors.Results: n=418 patient records were assessed: the majority of the patients were female (62.6%; n=262), with a mean age was 53.6±11.7 years, treated at the General Surgery department (81.8%; n=342). All patients managed for SUP were prescribed PPIs; the most commonly used PPI was omeprazole, both orally (37.7%; n=158) and parenterally (39.7%; n=166). The majority of patients (72.2%; n=302) were prescribed SUP for an appropriate indication or an associated risk. 46.1% (n=193) received SUP as a discharge medication with no records showing a follow-up, and there was no clear…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cohort study, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 418 participants or records.
Read the paper
Related studies
- Improving sleep quality leads to better mental health: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
- Tocilizumab in patients with severe COVID-19: a retrospective cohort study
- A new aging measure captures morbidity and mortality risk across diverse subpopulations from NHANES IV: A cohort study
- Fruit, vegetable, and legume intake, and cardiovascular disease and deaths in 18 countries (PURE): a prospective cohort study
- Are noise and air pollution related to the incidence of dementia? A cohort study in London, England
- Long COVID symptoms and duration in SARS-CoV-2 positive children — a nationwide cohort study
Go deeper in Evidence Hub
Evidence Hub adds a study data sheet (design, sample size, evidence level, key numbers), an AI summary and a chat grounded in the paper's text.