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Bruce P. Krieger, MD; Patti Ershowsky, RRT; David Spivack, MRP

JAMA. 1990;264(9):1143-1146.

Abstract
Many studies have shown that selected cardiac patients can be safely and economically cared for in intermediate care units rather than intensive care units. However, there are only limited data concerning intermediate care units for pulmonary patients. We prospectively followed up all Medicare patients from May 5, 1987, through May 4, 1988, who were admitted to a pulmonary noninvasive monitoring unit. Ninety-four patients were admitted 104 times; 33 required mechanical ventilatory support for an average of 26 days. The overall cost savings were greater than $173 000, while high-quality medical care was maintained. We conclude that a noninvasive monitoring unit can be effectively used as an alternative to the intensive care unit for selected pulmonary patients.

(JAMA. 1990;264:1143-1146)

Author Affiliations
From the Division of Pulmonary Disease, University of Miami School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Medical Center (Dr Krieger), and the Departments of Respiratory Care Services (Ms Ershowsky) and Administration (Mr Spivack), Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, Fla.

Footnotes
Reprint requests to Division of Pulmonary Disease, Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33140 (Dr Krieger).

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