Implementation of a Follow-Up Program for Intensive Care Unit Survivors

Area of Science:

• Critical care medicine
• Post-intensive care syndrome
• Patient outcomes

Background:

• Critical illness survivors often experience long-term health issues, including physical, cognitive, and psychological impairments.
• These challenges significantly impact quality of life and the ability to return to daily activities and work.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the long-term health status and quality of life in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) survivors.
• To identify factors associated with psychological distress and functional impairment after ICU discharge.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, observational study involving 95 ICU survivors.
• Data collection occurred at 7 days, 3 months, and 6 months post-discharge using structured follow-up programs.
• Validated scales including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Post-Traumatic Symptom Scale were utilized.

Main Results:

• A longer duration of intubation and ICU stay was significantly associated with higher anxiety and depression scores at 7 days post-discharge (p=0.048, p=0.023).
• A positive Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale at 3 months correlated with EuroQol-5D scores (p=0.048).
• Younger patients were more likely to report positive Post-Traumatic Symptom Scale scores at 6 months.

Conclusions:

• Prolonged intubation and ICU length of stay are linked to immediate post-discharge anxiety and depression.
• Early and ongoing follow-up programs are essential for monitoring and managing the complex needs of ICU survivors.
• Rehabilitation of cognitive function should be a key component of post-ICU care.