An Approach to Providing Occupational Therapy Services Within a Post-Intensive Care Clinic

Abstract

Patients discharged from lengthy ICU stays due to critical illness are often accompanied by post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). PICS is a condition that presents with physical, cognitive, emotional, and psychiatric deficits that often interfere with everyday activities. This study included a sample of 25 ICU survivors within a post-intensive care follow-up clinic. Data was extracted from self-report assessments for anxiety/depression, self-care, mobility, administered cognitive assessment and further data was collected utilizing grip strength measures. Data collected through the clinic provided evidence that would yield the need for occupational therapy services within this patient population. Additionally, a rapid systematic review was completed with the aim of expanding the role occupational therapists have within this post-intensive care population. Data collected within the clinic and results from the systematic review provide evidence for the potential role of occupational therapy within this patient population.