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Changes in intensive care from 1987 to 1997 - has outcome improved? A single centre study
1Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway. reidar.kvaale@haukeland.no
Intensive Care Medicine
|August 20, 2002
Summary
Intensive care unit (ICU) activity increased over 10 years, leading to longer survival for sicker patients. However, quality of life (QOL) remained reduced long after ICU discharge.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Health Services Research
- Longitudinal Health Outcomes
Background:
- Intensive care unit (ICU) populations and outcomes have evolved over time.
- Understanding changes in ICU care and their impact on patient survival and quality of life (QOL) is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze changes in ICU patient demographics and care intensity over a decade.
- To investigate the impact of these changes on patient survival and long-term QOL.
Main Methods:
- A 10-year observational study comparing ICU populations in 1987 and 1997.
- Utilized ICU databases, Severity of Illness Scoring Systems (SAPS II), and survival registries.
- Assessed long-term QOL using the Short Form 36 (SF 36) questionnaire in 2000.
Main Results:
- ICU activity and patient severity increased from 1987 to 1997, with unchanged length of stay.
- Despite higher crude mortality in 1997, severity-adjusted survival was prolonged.
- No excess mortality was observed two years post-ICU; however, QOL was significantly reduced compared to the general population.
Conclusions:
- Increased ICU activity correlated with improved severity-adjusted survival over the 10-year study period.
- Long-term quality of life remained significantly impaired for ICU survivors compared to the general population, even years after discharge.