Post‐ICU psychology support during the COVID‐19 pandemic

Abstract

BackgroundCritical illness survival rates have improved, but patients frequently face prolonged new or worsened physical, cognitive and psychosocial impairments (Josepha op't Hoog et al., 2022, Aust Crit Care). These difficulties associated with critical care admission are known as post‐intensive care syndrome (PICS).AimsThe multidisciplinary InS:PIRE programme was developed to support patients in the recovery period from critical illness. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, the psychology support offered by this service was adapted from an in‐person group to individual remote review. This audit evaluated both the extent to which this input aligned with the recommended guidelines and the acceptability of this adapted delivery to this patient group, which could help guide post‐pandemic psychology input to the service.Study DesignThe records of 207 patients were analysed retrospectively. The nature of support offered to a sub‐sample of 50 patients detailed in clinical summary letters was compared with the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine (2019) guidelines. Telephone calls were made to gather feedback on the virtual psychology support from 10 patients.ResultsPsychological difficulties were identified by 111 of the 207 patients who attended the virtual clinic. A total of 88 of these patients accepted referral for virtual psychology support and 67 (76%) of those patients attended. The virtual psychology support offered was found to be largely in accordance with ICU aftercare guidance and acceptable to patients. Patients found the summary letters of consultations accurate and helpful. Most patients expressed a preference for in‐person support and the opportunity to meet other patients.ConclusionsThe adaptations to the psychology support offered by InS:PIRE during the COVID‐19 pandemic were found to be largely in line with ICU aftercare psychology guidelines and were acceptable to patients. Further research is needed on future methods of delivering psychology support for this patient group.Relevance to Clinical PracticeThis audit highlights issues important to patients in the post‐ICU period based on individual consultations not previously possible. Patient opinion was sought on the impact of changing the delivery of post‐ICU psychological support, which will help guide future improvements in the service.