With an increasing number of people surviving critical illnesses and injuries due to advances in medical technology, the discussion surrounding Post-Intensive Care Syndrome is becoming more important than ever. It could be argued that surviving the ICU is only half of the battle, since as many as 64% of patients end up with one or more PICS-related symptoms that appear as a result of a stay in the ICU.
In this comprehensive article, we delve into the various aspects of Post-Intensive Care Syndrome. We list the most common physical, cognitive and psychological symptoms of PICS, answer how long Post-Intensive Care Syndrome may last, as well as exploring risk factors for developing PICS. Finally, we explore a powerful way to alleviate or even prevent Post-Intensive Care Syndrome: the Post-ICU digital diary.
One of the primary facets of PICS involves the physical symptoms experienced by survivors. These symptoms can be quite challenging to deal with and may include:
PICS can also manifest itself in cognitive problems. Some examples of cognitive dysfunction include:
Apart from the physical symptoms, the psychological impact on both ICU survivors and their families is often just as significant and debilitating. Some of the psychological symptoms seen in PICS include:
How long PICS lasts is dependent on a number of factors. There seems to be consensus among various researchers that Post-Intensive Care Syndrome can last from a few months to many years. Some symptoms of PICS are more likely to improve quickly, while other symptoms are more likely to linger on. For example, it can take up to a year for muscle weakness to go away completely. Cognitive dysfunctions and psychological problems, such as memory issues or anxiousness, may linger on for much longer than a year. Unfortunately, some people never fully regain their former physical or cognitive abilities.
It’s important to understand that many different factors can contribute to a patient or family member developing PICS. While each patient’s experience may vary, some common contributing factors include:
Treating PICS is not easy, as the syndrome can manifest itself in a wide variety of symptoms. Therefore, sufficient efforts should be put towards preventing ICU patients and families from developing Post-Intensive Care Syndrome symptoms, or alleviating them as early in the care process as possible.
Besides treating PICS with physical rehabilitation or psychological support from therapists and counselors, there is one essential, scientifically proven tool that can help alleviate or even prevent Post-Intensive Care Syndrome. That tool is the ICU diary. ICU diaries can be kept by professional caregivers and the family and friends of the patient. In some cases, the ICU patient themselves is also able to write in their diary. Learn more about how the Post-ICU diary helps patients and families.
The role of ICU diaries in alleviating Post-Intensive Care Syndrome for both patients and families is significant in several ways:
In conclusion, Post-Intensive Care Syndrome is a complex and challenging condition that affects many individuals who have been discharged from the Intensive Care Unit. It encompasses a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms, which can have a profound impact on one’s life. Recognizing the symptoms, understanding the causes, and acknowledging the crucial role of ICU diaries in the recovery process are essential to help both ICU survivors and their families recover better, and improve their quality of life after ICU discharge.
Please find the consulted scientific literature to help write this article here.
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