Advancing Healthcare Through
Critical Care Western Research
The Critical Care Western Research team tackles the full complexity of critical illness. With studies spanning sepsis, neurological outcomes, fluid resuscitation, and end-of-life decision-making, the program reflects the multi-organ challenges faced in the ICU.
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We translate clinical realities into targeted investigations- developing evidence-based strategies to improve survival, recovery, and long-term outcomes. From acute interventions to ethical frameworks, our University Hospital (UH) ICU research team is shaping how critical care is understood and delivered.
Current Research
VEXUS
Venous Congestion and Renal Outcomes in Septic Shock
This study explores how venous congestion may contribute to kidney injury in patients with septic shock. Using bedside ultrasound, researchers aim to identify early signs of organ stress and improve fluid management in critically ill patients.
ESTABLISH
Early Severe Illness Translational Biology Informatics in Humans
The ESTABLISH study is uncovering how the body responds to critical illness in its earliest stages by analyzing biological samples from ICU patients. This research aims to improve diagnosis, personalize treatments, and guide the development of new therapies for conditions like sepsis and respiratory failure.
HONOUR
High-Flow Nasal Oxygen with or without Helmet Non-Invasive Ventilation for Oxygen Support in Acute Respiratory Failure
The HONOUR study is testing two non-invasive oxygen therapies to help patients with severe respiratory failure breathe more comfortably and avoid intubation. This pilot trial will determine whether a larger study comparing high-flow nasal oxygen alone versus in combination with helmet ventilation is feasible and potentially life-saving.
CONFOCAL-2
Cerebral Oxygenation and Neurological Outcomes Following Critical Illness
​The CONFOCAL-2 study investigates how brain oxygen levels relate to delirium and long-term cognitive outcomes in critically ill patients. It uses non-invasive monitoring and biomarker analysis to better understand neurological dysfunction during and after ICU care.