Study of intra-abdominal hypertension prevalence and awareness level among experienced ICU medical staff

Background Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) is a disease with high morbidity and mortality among critically ill patients. The study’s objectives were to explore the prevalence of IAH and physicians’ awareness of the 2013 World Society of Abdominal Compartment Syndrome (WSACS) guidelines in Chinese intensive care units (ICUs). Methods A cross-sectional study of four ICUs in Southwestern China was conducted from June 17 to August 2, 2014. Adult patients admitted to the ICU for more than 24 h, with bladder catheter but without obvious intravesical pressure (IVP) measurement contraindications, were recruited. Intensivists with more than 5 years of ICU working experience were also recruited. Epidemiological information, potential IAH risk factors, IVP measurements and questionnaire results were recorded. Results Forty-one patients were selected. Fifteen (36.59 %) had IVP ≥ 12 mmHg. SOFA (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment) hepatic and neurological sub-scores were utilized as independent predictors for IAH via logistic backward analysis. Thirty-seven intensivists participated in the survey (response rate: 80.43 %). The average score of each center was less than 35 points. All physicians believed the IAH prevalence in their departments was no more than 20.00 %. A significant negative correlation was observed between the intensivists’ awareness of the 2013 WSACS guidelines and the IAH prevalence in each center (r = -0.975, P = 0.025). Conclusions The prevalence and independent predictors of IAH among the surveyed population are similar to the reports in the literature. Intensivists generally have a low awareness of the 2013 WSACS guidelines. A systematic guideline training program is vital for improving the efficiency of the diagnosis and treatment of IAH.