Efficacy of the intensive care unit diary: a mixed-method study protocol

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Medicine
• Patient and Family Experience
• Psychological Health

Background:

• Previous studies on ICU diaries have limitations including small sample sizes and short follow-up periods.
• A mixed-methods approach with larger samples and longer follow-up is needed to assess diary efficacy.
• This protocol outlines a study to evaluate ICU diaries for patients, families, and healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of ICU diaries in improving patient quality of life.
• To evaluate the impact of ICU diaries on preventing post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression in patients and families.
• To explore healthcare professionals' experiences and satisfaction with ICU diary implementation.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study combining a quantitative randomized clinical trial and a qualitative phenomenological study.
• Phase 1: A multicentre randomized trial (120 patients/families per group) comparing diary use versus no diary, with follow-ups at 2, 6, and 12 months post-discharge.
• Phase 2: A qualitative study with 38-72 patients/family members using in-depth interviews and field diaries.

Main Results:

• Quantitative data will be analyzed using IBM-SPSS (v.24) to assess quality of life (SF-36), post-traumatic stress (EIE-R), and anxiety/depression (HADS).
• Professional satisfaction will be evaluated through a survey.
• Qualitative data from interviews and diaries will undergo phenomenological analysis.

Conclusions:

• This research will provide comprehensive data on the benefits and limitations of ICU diaries.
• Findings will guide the implementation of diaries, considering patient, family, and professional perspectives.
• The study aims to significantly advance critical care by confirming the efficacy of diaries in patient recovery and enhancing family and professional experiences.