Nursing Interventions for Post-Intensive Care Syndrome in Follow-Up Clinics: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Critical Care Nursing
• Patient Rehabilitation
• Long-term Health Outcomes

Background:

• Rising ICU survival rates necessitate management of long-term Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS).
• The role and effectiveness of nursing interventions in PICS follow-up clinics require further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically identify and synthesize nursing interventions for PICS patients and their families in follow-up settings.
• To understand the scope and outcomes of nursing care in addressing the sequelae of intensive care unit (ICU) stays.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review utilizing the JBI methodology, searching major databases (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL) and grey literature.
• Inclusion criteria focused on nursing interventions for PICS in adult patients and families, excluding pediatric and end-of-life populations.
• Analysis of 12 selected articles published between 2005 and 2022.

Main Results:

• Identified diverse nursing interventions for PICS patients, including debriefing, symptom evaluation, health education, cognitive-behavioral therapy, support groups, physical rehabilitation, and virtual reality.
• Family-focused interventions included appointment involvement, educational sessions, patient diary review, and emotional support.
• The review synthesized findings from 12 studies conducted across multiple countries.

Conclusions:

• Nursing interventions are vital for the physical, mental, and emotional rehabilitation of ICU survivors and their families.
• Follow-up consultations are critical for optimizing recovery outcomes.
• Comprehensive PICS assessments and family-centered care planning are essential for effective PICS management.