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Published on: July 4, 2018
Exploring patients' experiences in intensive care units (ICU): A cross-sectional study in Pakistan
Tawseef Ahmad1, Sirima Sitaruno1, Sutthiporn Pattharachayakul1
1Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Prince of Songkla University, Hat-Yai, 90110, Songkhla, Thailand.
Background:
Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stays are often traumatic, impacting patients psychologically, physically, and emotionally. However, patient experiences in ICU settings remain underexplored, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan.
Objective:
This study aimed to assess the experiences of ICU patients in a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan, with a focus on psychological distress, emotional responses, and perceived quality of care.
Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad. A total of 102 post-ICU patients meeting the inclusion criteria were interviewed within 72 h of transfer to medical wards. Data were collected using the validated Intensive Care Experience Questionnaire (ICEQ), and analyzed to evaluate patient perceptions and associated factors.
Results:
Of the participants, 93.13% expressed relief upon discharge from the ICU, while 42.15% reported experiencing blurred memories during their stay. Despite this, 77.45% expressed satisfaction with the care received. Notably, only 23.52% of patients felt involved in decision-making processes regarding their care, indicating a communication gap. Statistical analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between patient age and satisfaction with care (r = -0.199, p < 0.05), suggesting older patients experienced reduced satisfaction. Gender also negatively correlated with memory of experience (r = -0.236, p < 0.05) and satisfaction with care (r = -0.208, p < 0.05), with women reporting more negative experiences. Length of ICU stay was significantly associated with reduced environmental awareness (r = -0.230, p < 0.001).
Conclusion:
The findings highlight significant psychological and emotional challenges faced by ICU patients in Pakistan. Enhanced patient-centered communication, psychological support, and greater involvement in care decisions are critical to improving ICU experiences. Nursing staff play a pivotal role in creating a supportive and therapeutic ICU environment that fosters trust and improves patient outcomes.
