Preventing stress ulcer bleeding

Gastric or duodenal mucosal erosions, or stress ulcers, are a known complication of critical illness [1]. General supportive care and treatment of the underlying cause of the critical illness are the cornerstones of intensive care medicine and may help minimize the risk of stress ulcer bleeding. Stress ulcer prophylaxis is often prescribed to prevent such ulcers and their consequences [2] which include patient and family concerns [3], tests (e.g., endoscopy), treatments (e.g., blood transfusions), and associated morbidity and mortality.