Implementing the ABCDE Bundle, Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool, and Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale to Reduce Ventilation Time

Prolonged mechanical ventilation of patients in intensive care units across the United States consumes billions of health care dollars every year. Using the awakening and breathing coordination, delirium monitoring/management, and early mobility (ABCDE) bundle along with the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool and the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale combines the best available evidence to optimize outcomes for critically ill patients. This study is the first to examine the effects of implementing the ABCDE bundle, the Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool, and the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale together in a coordinated effort across multiple disciplines. The aim of using this combination of evidence-based tools is to reduce ventilation time by reducing oversedation, decreasing the incidence of delirium, and improving pain management.