Integrated Pulmonary Index as a Predictor of Respiratory Compromise in Critically Ill Patients

The integrated pulmonary index (IPI) is a newly developed index for respiratory monitoring. However, there is limited evidence on its effectiveness and usefulness in critically ill patients. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical relevance of the IPI as a predictor of respiratory compromise in critically ill patients.

Recent developments aim to use multiple parameters to detect AREs. Application of smart algorithms that combine individual physiological variables into one index may increase the ability to detect a true adverse respiratory event while avoiding false alarms and limiting alarm fatigue. An example of such a multiparameter index is the Integrated Pulmonary Index or IPI™, which integrates oxygen saturation (SpO2), respiratory rate (RR), end-tidal PCO2 (PETCO2) and heart rate (HR) into a single integer value of 1-10 that represents adequacy of respiratory condition of the patient using a fuzzy logic inference mathematical model; scores ≥ 8 points are within normal range and those ≤ 4 points suggest requirement of interventions. The IPI algorithm summarizes the state of ventilation and oxygenation at the point in time. Previous studies reported that IPI correlated with respiratory physiological parameters of patients undergoing sedation for surgeries or for colonoscopy. Up to our knowledge, the clinical relevance of the IPI as a predictor of respiratory compromise in critically ill patients has not been discussed before.