Post-traumatic stress disorder trajectories in sepsis survivors

Recently published study identified and predict trajectories of post-traumatic stress symptoms in sepsis survivors up to two years after discharge from the ICU. It addressed the limited research on long-term trajectories of post-traumatic stress and potentially modifiable risk factors following the ICU stay. The study included data on post-traumatic stress symptoms collected from sepsis survivors at one, six, 12, and 24 months after ICU discharge. The results identified three distinct trajectories of post-traumatic stress symptoms: stable low symptoms (59% of patients), increasing symptoms (26%), and recovering from symptoms (15%). Patients with initially high post-traumatic symptoms were more likely to show a decrease. Females and patients reporting early traumatic memories of the ICU were at higher risk for increasing post-traumatic stress symptoms.

Implications of Findings

The findings suggest that post-traumatic stress is a relevant long-term burden for sepsis patients after ICU stay and highlight the importance of regular screening for post-traumatic stress, especially in patients with few initial symptoms. The study suggests the need for timely screening for early traumatic memories after ICU discharge and regular monitoring of post-traumatic stress symptoms in the long term. Additionally, it indicates that women may be at a higher risk of increasing symptom severity and emphasizes the importance of screening and monitoring, particularly in general practice settings.