ICU Research at University Hospital Geelong

ICU Research Program

Research is an integral component of the Intensive Care Unit at Barwon Health. It ensures we continually understand how best to treat patients and adapt to changes in health science. Conducting research in the critically ill requires particular skills, experience and sensitivity.

Our dedicated and experienced ICU research nurses are a pivotal interface between clinicians, patients, families, coordinating centres and hospital research governance processes. Our monthly research meeting allows ICU staff to be updated on the progress of all research projects and consider proposals for new studies. This forum is an effective means of engaging clinical staff and identifying appropriate future studies and collaborations.

During 2018/2019, there were 1,735 patients admitted to ICU. Overall there were 2,688 episodes of screening, and 134 ICU patients (7.7%) participated in clinical research.

Research Team
  • Medical Director of Research: Dr Neil Orford
  • Research Nurse Coordinators: Michelle Horton, Jemma Tricky
Current Trials
  • MegaRox: Adaptive randomisation of liberal vs conservative oxygen provision
  • HAS FLAIR II: Comparing 20% Albumin solution vs crystalloid post cardiac surgery
  • REMAP-CAP: Platform Trial of interventions for community acquired pneumonia
  • SPRINT SARI: Short Period Incidence study of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection
  • ECMO-CARD: ECMO for Novel Coronavirus Acute Respiratory Disease
  • BONEZONE: Effect of denosumab or zoledronic acid on bone mineral density after critical illness
  • REVISE: Pantoprazole vs placebo for stress ulcer prophylaxis
  • TEAM: Early mobilisation for ventilated patients