Conclusion
Important predictors of thirst presence were high
doses of furosemide and opioids, and SSRIs. TheGI diagnosis
was the clinically significant predictor of thirstintensity. Meaningful predictors of thirst distress were
mechanical ventilation, antihypertensive medications,
and having a GI or ‘‘other diagnosis.’’This study confirms
the need to assess multiple dimensions of thirst in the
ICU setting and test interventions that address these
risk factors within the context of necessary ICU care.
Clinicians can use these new relevant data to reduce the
discomfort and burden of thirst in critically ill patients.