How long is too long for intensive care unit stays and post-ICU syndrome ?

Post-ICU Impairments in Patients with Shorter ICU Stays

Recently published study explored the post-intensive care unit (ICU) recovery of patients with shorter ICU stays, which are often excluded from studies and interventions. It conducted a secondary analysis of the tracking outcomes post-intensive care (TOPIC) study, assessing 132 participants 6 months after ICU discharge using standardized self-report tools for physical and cognitive function, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The results showed that 30% of the participants had at least one identified post-ICU impairment, with 17% of those having an ICU length of stay < 72 hours. The study indicated that many patients with a short ICU length of stay experienced post-ICU impairments, highlighting the need for further research in this population.

Burden of Morbidity Among Patients with Shorter ICU Stays

The prevalence of impairments was observed across the spectrum of ICU stays, with a considerable burden of morbidity among patients with shorter ICU stays. The study emphasized the importance of including patients with shorter ICU stays in future research and treatment efforts, as they represent a potential burden of morbidity that may be currently understudied and undertreated.

Factors and Imperatives Related to Post-ICU Syndrome for Patients with Shorter Stays

The findings suggested that factors contributing to post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) among patients with shorter ICU stays may be different from those with longer stays. The study also emphasized the ethical and economic imperative of including patients with shorter ICU stays in both future research and treatment efforts.

Reference –

Flaws, D., Fraser, J.F., Laupland, K. et al. Time in ICU and post-intensive care syndrome: how long is long enough?. Crit Care 28, 34 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13054-024-04812-7.