Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting mechanical ventilation need among acutely intoxicated patients with impaired consciousness

Abstract

Background: A considerable portion of acutely intoxicated patients is presented with impaired consciousness. Early identification of those patients who require advanced medical care, such as mechanical ventilation (MV), can improve their prognosis. Methods: This study included 330 acutely intoxicated patients who were presented with impaired consciousness and admitted to Tanta University Poison Control Center, Egypt, in the period from January 2021 to December 2023. Patients were enrolled in derivation (257 patients) and validation (73 patients) cohorts. Patients’ data were analyzed to develop and validate a predictive nomogram to determine the probability of MV need in acutely intoxicated patients. Results: Significant predictors for MV need were mean arterial blood pressure (OR = 0.96, p =.014), PaO2 (OR = 0.96, p =.001), pH (OR = 0.00, p