CAW stands for which term?

• A. Cardiac Arrhythmia Withstanding
• B. Chronic Anemia and Weakness
• C. Critical-Illness Acquired Weakness
• D. Chronic Atrial Widening

Answer: (C)

CAW stands for Critical-Illness Acquired Weakness, a generalized muscle weakness that develops during a severe illness or prolonged ICU stay. This weakness often results from a mix of critical illness polyneuropathy and critical illness myopathy, and is worsened by immobility, systemic inflammation, steroids or certain paralytics, and poor nutrition. It matters in practice because it directly affects a patient’s ability to wean from the ventilator and to regain function, making early mobilization and targeted rehab essential. Recognizing CAW guides clinicians to initiate progressive physical therapy, maintain appropriate nutrition, optimize glycemic control, and plan safe weaning strategies. The other terms listed do not represent this recognized ICU-acquired weakness syndrome.