Horowitz Index for Lung Function (P/F Ratio)
Assesses lung function, particularly in intubated patients.
The P/F ratio should be used in patients where arterial oxygen partial pressure (PaO2) and the fractional inspired oxygen (FiO2) can be measured accurately. Any estimated values should be interpreted with caution.
Advice
- Lower P/F ratios indicate higher severity of ARDS and higher mortality risk.
- May guide ventilator management and help determine the need for additional treatments based on disease severity, such as the use of glucocorticoids, neuromuscular blockade, prone positioning, lung recruitment maneuvers, and ECMO.
- The ratio can be monitored throughout treatment to assess response to therapies and changes in clinical status.