Abstract:
Objective: We aim to share insights from our implementation experience, and advocate for the expansion of tele-Intensive care unit (ICU) initiatives to address healthcare disparities in pediatric critical care in low resource settings.
Methodology: A retrospective analysis of the implementation and outcomes of pediatric peer-to-peer tele-ICU consultation services. Including accredited pediatric training facilities in Pakistan. Patients who were consulted through tele-ICU services, aged between 0-18 years, were included in the study.
Results: A total of 442 tele-ICU consultations from 42 different hospitals across the country were analyzed with a significant representation from Punjab 138(31.2%), followed by Sindh125(28.3%). The mean age of patients was 6.39±6.52 years. Majority of calls were for Daily Rounds 414(93.7%) with WhatsApp™ as the predominant mode of communication with 333(75.3%). Mean time to accept a call was 16.59± 23.77 minutes and average call time was 9.29±7.70 minutes. Most common patients’ complaints during consultation were, respiratory issues 204(30.36%) and neurological complaints 131(19.49%) of the total consultations. Basic assessments 468(41.90%), first-line management 121(10.83%), respiratory protocols and any airway management 240(21.49%) were major interventions recommended.
Conclusion: Our results show feasibility of implementation of Tele-ICU framework and can be further expanded in resource agnostic settings.
Key words: tele-ICU, low-middle-income country, pediatric critical care, pediatric intensive care unit
