Psychological problems after discharge from the Intensive Care Unit: the need for aftercare

Abstract

Background: After discharge from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) many patients suffer from anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Purpose of this study was to explore the need for a psychosocial aftercare program among ex-ICU patients. Methods: A survey was carried out among 109 ex-ICU patients with a minimum 2-day stay. Three months after discharge, they completed a set of questionnaires to measure the levels of depression and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), PTSD (Impact of Event Scale), Quality of life (SF36), IC experiences (ICE questionnaire) and the need for aftercare (Need for Aftercare Questionnaire-ICU). Findings: Results show that psychological problems (depression, anxiety and PTSS), Quality of life and IC experiences significantly contributed to the need for psychosocial aftercare (p<0.001). More frightening IC experiences and less memories of the ICU admission were associated with more psychological problems and an increased need for aftercare (P<0.001). Discussion: This study emphasizes the importance of psychosocial aftercare to help former ICU patients to deal with the psychological aftermath after discharge from the ICU.