Decoding Cardiovascular Links to Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Admission and Mortality in COVID-19

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the cardiovascular links to intensive care unit (ICU) admission and mortality in COVID-19 patients. Methods: A retrospective study of 216 COVID-19 patients admitted to Shahid Faghihi Hospital was conducted. The study examined their lab results, heart tests, and cardiovascular complications. Data were analyzed using SPSS (v.26) software with t-tests, chi-square tests, and logistic regression models. Results: Out of 216 patients, 41.2% were male and 58.8% were female, with a mean age of 61.56 years. Of these, 23.1% required ICU admission, and 14.81% of the total died. Patients needing ICU care had higher age, LDH, and D-dimer levels, while deceased patients showed elevated LDH, D-dimer, troponin, and various ECG abnormalities. A normal ECG had a protective effect against ICU admission. Conclusions: COVID-19 patients can develop cardiovascular complications such as myocarditis, stroke, and pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE), which increase morbidity and mortality. Therefore, careful cardiovascular monitoring is crucial.