Which of the following is a risk factor for ICU-acquired weakness?

Which of the following is a risk factor for ICU-acquired weakness?

• A. Steroids
• B. Physical therapy
• C. Hydration with water
• D. Vitamin supplements

Answer: (A)

ICU-acquired weakness develops when critical illness, immobilization, and certain medications interact to cause muscle and nerve impairment. Steroids are a clear risk factor because they induce corticosteroid‑related myopathy: a catabolic effect on skeletal muscle that lowers protein synthesis and increases breakdown, especially in proximal muscles, leading to symmetric weakness. This weakening often occurs with high-dose or prolonged steroid use common in ICU care and is amplified by inactivity and systemic illness. In contrast, physical therapy helps prevent this weakness by maintaining muscle mass and neuromuscular function. Hydration supports overall health but doesn’t specifically cause ICU‑acquired weakness, and vitamin supplements don’t introduce this risk.

ICU-acquired weakness develops when critical illness, immobilization, and certain medications interact to cause muscle and nerve impairment. Steroids are a clear risk factor because they induce corticosteroid‑related myopathy: a catabolic effect on skeletal muscle that lowers protein synthesis and increases breakdown, especially in proximal muscles, leading to symmetric weakness. This weakening often occurs with high-dose or prolonged steroid use common in ICU care and is amplified by inactivity and systemic illness. In contrast, physical therapy helps prevent this weakness by maintaining muscle mass and neuromuscular function. Hydration supports overall health but doesn’t specifically cause ICU‑acquired weakness, and vitamin supplements don’t introduce this risk.