“Shock” was
defined as a sustained decrease in systolic blood pressure of at
least 40 mm Hg from baseline or a systolic blood pressure less
than 90 mm Hg despite adequate fluid infusion (16). “AKI” was
defined as an absolute increase in serum creatinine more than
or equal to 26.4 μmol/L or an increase more than or equal to
1.5 from baseline (17). “MOF” was defined as the occurrence of
three or more acute organ failures. The severity of episode was
assessed on the Simplified Acute Physiologic Score II (18). ICU
and hospital lengths of stay and vital status at discharge were
recorded. The cause of death was explored whenever possible.