Surviving the intensive care: residual physical, cognitive, and emotional dysfunction

Patients recovering from critical illness may suffer from physical, psychological, and cognitive problems that have a negative impact on their health-related quality of life. To ensure that patients return as close as possible to their previous physical and mental health, their rehabilitation needs should be assessed and an appropriate program started. Both early mobilization and physical rehabilitation while the patient is still in the intensive care unit and manualized rehabilitation after discharge are beneficial. It is important to assess the rehabilitation needs of patients and target physiotherapy and counseling resources at those patients with the greatest need.