Abstract

Nowaday intensive care units (ICUs) have become an integral part of the health care system oflow and middle-income countries, where resources are limited. Monitoring of critically ill patientsin an intensive care units (ICUs) of resource-rich settings typically involves highly specializedhealth care professionals, systematic monitoring and use of high-cost technology. Unfortunately,these components are not always available in resource-limited settings, where the burden ofdisease is greater and mortality from potentially treatable illnesses is higher than in resource-rich areas.

A significant strategy involves task shifting, where trained non-physician healthcare workers,such as nurses and medical technicians, play a greater role in patient monitoring to compensatefor physician shortages. The integration of point-of-care diagnostics and the use of simplifiedmonitoring tools help bridge gaps in equipment availability, enabling timely decision-making andearly intervention. Additionally, the adoption of telemedicine facilitates remote monitoring andexpert consultation, particularly in low-resource settings where specialist availability is limited.

Early warning scoring systems (EWSS) and data-driven decision-making frameworks furtherenhance patient monitoring by enabling the timely identification of clinical deterioration andensuring prompt medical interventions. Strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration amonghealthcare professionals, optimizing resource allocation, and fostering a culture of continuoustraining and education contribute to improved patient safety and overall care quality.

By implementing these strategic approaches, resource-limited ICUs can enhance theirmonitoring capabilities and reduce adverse patient outcomes. These solutions can ensure earlydetection and treatment of critical illness, which could prevent multi-organ failure and death andease burden on limited ICU resources.