Relationship of symptoms associated with ICU-survivorship: An integrative literature review

The number of adults who survive a critical illness involving admission to an intensive care unit is increasing. These survivors have an increased risk of developing impairments in cognition, physical function and psychological health.

This integrative literature review examined the literature for studies exploring the relationships among two or more of the variables of interest, i.e. cognitive, physical, and psychological symptoms (depressive, anxiety, or posttraumatic stress) in intensive care unit survivors post-hospital discharge.

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, CINHAL and PsycINFO databases.

While all 13 studies included in the review explored some aspect of a relationship among the variables of interest, none explored associations among all three variables. Five studies explored physical function and psychological symptoms, four studies explored cognitive impairment and psychological symptoms and five studies explored the association among different psychological symptoms. Inconsistencies were found in the study designs, follow-up time frames, patient populations and measures used.

Further research using well-designed methodologies and standardized instruments is warranted. Gaining a better understanding of the relationships among these impairments has the potential to contribute to the development of screening guidelines, preventative strategies, and treatments.