Posttraumatic stress after treatment in an intensive care unit

Abstract

Objective: To study posttraumatic stress in patients after treatment in an intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: This prospective cohort study included 136 adult patients with critical medical and surgical problems who were discharged from the ICU of the Caritas Medical Centre, Hong Kong. Their occurrence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression after ICU treatment were measured using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Patient ICU experience was measured using the ICU Memory Tool. Multivariate analyses were conducted to examine the predictors of PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression. Results: Symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression were reported in 10% to 17% of patients. Symptom severity was associated with less factual memory, more vivid memory of feelings about and more delusional memory of the ICU experience, low emotional support, and high perceived life threat. Conclusions: Symptoms of posttraumatic stress, anxiety, and depression may occur after ICU treatment. Early identification and appropriate intervention for PTSD are important for rehabilitation.