Treatment in an ICU is not only stressful but also psychologically traumatic. Those who have survived a critical illness are at a risk of developing significant physical, cognitive and psychological problems after discharge. A new or deteriorating physical or mental impairment which follows treatment on ICU is known as post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) .
The psychological conditions that are primarily observed are anxiety , depression , and post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD) . Post ICU anxiety Occurs in 25-46% of the patients after 3-14 months following discharge Associated with psychiatric symptoms, memories, and delusions Post-critical illness Depressive symptoms Occur in around 29% of survivors at 3-12 months post ICU discharge Symptoms of psychological distress (anxiety, stress, and anger) PTSD symptom Prevalent at 17–34% at 12 months post-ICU discharge Associated with pre-ICU…
