ICU-Acquired Weakness Explained | Critical Care Essentials | Anaesthesia Review Hub

ICU-acquired weakness (ICUAW) is a common and often under-recognised complication of critical illness, associated with prolonged ventilation, increased ICU length of stay, and long-term functional impairment. This video provides a clear and structured overview of ICU-acquired weakness, with emphasis on early recognition, assessment, and management in the intensive care setting. Topics covered include: Definition and spectrum of ICU-acquired weakness Critical illness polyneuropathy and myopathy Risk factors and pathophysiology Clinical assessment and bedside diagnosis Differential diagnosis of weakness in ICU patients Prevention strategies and management principles Anaesthetic and critical care considerations This lecture is designed for anaesthesia trainees, Anaesthesia Final Exam candidates, intensive care clinicians, and allied critical care professionals, focusing on high-yield concepts relevant to exams and daily ICU practice. 📌 Educational content only. Not a substitute for local ICU protocols or clinical guidelines.