Protocol-driven care in the intensive care unit: a tool for quality

Advances in organization and patient management in the intensive care unit (ICU) have led to reductions in the morbidity and mortality suffered by cri tically ill patients. Two such advances include multidisciplinary teams (MD Ts) and the development of clinical protocols. The use of protocols and MDT s does not necessarily guarantee instant improvement in the quality of care , but it does offer useful tools for the pursuit of such objectives. As ICU physicians increasingly assume leadership roles in the pursuit of higher q uality ICU care, their knowledge and skills in the discipline of quality im provement will become essential.