Monitoring the critically ill surgical patient.

This review has focused on several aspects of monitoring the critically ill patient. A few of the more commonly used monitoring devices have been discussed to emphasize that their use carries some risk. Because of this, proper indications, based on the benefits to be achieved, must be available before they are used. Guidelines for the safe use of these devices have been outlines. We have dealth with hemodynamic assessment, renal insufficiency, pulmonary monitoring and stress ulceration. Guidelines and specific examples have been presented to illustrate the prevention, early diagnosis and management of problems.