If you're unlucky enough to need a bed in an intensive care unit for COVID-19, cross your fingers that you'll get a bed at the right time.<br />That's because ICU patients treated during periods of increased demand are almost twice as likely to die compared to those treated in low-demand periods.<br />UPI reports intensive care units operating at 75% to 100% capacity were classified as 'high demand.' 'Low demand' was classified at less than 25% of capacity.<br />The study showed patients in ICUs operating at high demand had a 94% higher risk for death compared to those in facilities operating at low demand.<br />Hospitals in many parts of the country have reported being overwhelmed with patients requiring ICU treatment during the pandemic.<br />Research suggests up to 30% of COVID-19 patients require treatment in the ICU, with many needing mechanical ventilator support to breathe.
