Constipation in long-term ventilated patients: Associated factors and impact on intensive care unit outcomes*

Abstract

A Pao2/Fio2 ratio of < 150 mm Hg and systolic blood pressure of < 90 mm Hg during the first 5 days of mechanical ventilation were independently associated with a delay in defecation. Our results suggest that constipation is associated with adverse outcomes in long-term ventilated patients.