Posttraumatic stress disorder after intensive care: Prevalence, risk factors, and treatment

Abstract

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common consequence of intensive care which might affect not only the patients but also their relatives. About one fifth of these patients develop clinically important PTSD in the first year after intensive care. Comorbid psychopathology, received benzodiazepines, and memories of the frightening, distressing ICU experiences are common risk factors for the development of PTSD symptoms. There are only a few specific approaches for the treatment of PTSD after intensive care. The efficacy of intensive care diaries has only been examined in a few studies, but could not yet be confirmed clearly. Internet-based writing therapy represents a further treatment option where the partner also becomes involved in the treatment.