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Piloting an ICU follow-up clinic - qualitative process evaluation alongside a feasibility study
Karl Philipp Drewitz1, Christine Bernardi2, Katharina Pielmeier2,3
1Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Otto Von Guericke University Magdeburg, Medical Faculty, Leipziger Str. 44, Magdeburg, 39120, Germany. karl-philipp.drewitz@med.ovgu.de.
Pilot and Feasibility Studies
|May 8, 2026
Summary
This study found that intensive care unit (ICU) follow-up clinics and their associated randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are feasible and acceptable to patients, relatives, and healthcare professionals. The findings suggest these clinics meet patient needs and support large-scale implementation.
Area of Science:
- Critical Care Medicine
- Health Services Research
- Patient Outcomes
Background:
- Previous studies show limited impact of ICU follow-up clinics on quality of life.
- Study design and implementation factors may influence outcomes.
- Research on the feasibility and context of these clinics is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore patient, relative, and healthcare professional experiences with an ICU follow-up clinic and its randomized controlled trial (RCT).
- To assess the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention and study design from stakeholder perspectives.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative research embedded in a pilot RCT process evaluation.
- 18 semi-structured interviews with former ICU patients, relatives, and the clinical study team.
- Qualitative content analysis of interview data and field notes.
Main Results:
- The pilot RCT and ICU follow-up clinic were well-received, with high motivation among participants and staff.
- Key benefits included feeling taken seriously and receiving specialized referrals.
- Home visits were highly valued by patients with long travel distances.
Conclusions:
- Integrating stakeholder perspectives into a pilot RCT for ICU follow-up clinics is feasible.
- The ICU follow-up clinic and RCT design were deemed acceptable and valuable by all groups.
- Findings suggest the intervention meets patient needs and a large-scale study is feasible.
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