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Chandrasekhar T, Ravishankar C, Geethanjali A, Lahari T. Outcomes in Patients with Long COVID-19 One Year After their Discharge from Intensive Care Units. Cureus 2025; 17:e81739. [PMID: 40330357 PMCID: PMC12051819 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.81739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/04/2025] [Indexed: 05/08/2025] Open
Abstract
Introduction Survivors of prolonged severe COVID-19 who are treated at ICUs are at risk for physical and psychological complications, including lung injury and multi-organ dysfunction. As the number of survivors of severe COVID-19 increases, it is necessary to understand the trajectory of the disease and the patient care needed after discharge from the ICU. This study tries to efficiently assess the long-term clinical sequelae among patients with prolonged severe COVID-19 who were admitted to the ICU, one year after their discharge. The parameters tested included the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessment test (CAT) score, pulmonary function tests, and laboratory data. Materials and methods The study population included 454 patients who were followed up one year after surviving ICU admission for severe COVID-19. All the patients who presented with signs and symptoms to the hospital were examined further. They underwent the necessary investigations, assessments, and systemic examinations. The results of all the laboratory and radiological investigations were reviewed. During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, all the patient details were entered into a hospital information management system from which the data was retrieved. Mean with standard deviation (SD) or median or interquartile ranges (IQR) were used to assess the continuous variables, whereas numbers and percentages were used for categorical variables. Statistical significance was calculated by the Chi-square test. Results The median age of the study population was 64 (IQR 57-74) years and 64.7% (294/454) were male patients. The median follow-up time was 367 days. During the follow-up period, 14.9% (68/454) of the patients were readmitted to the ICU. The mean length of hospital stay was 12 days (IQR 8-20 days). Among the readmitted patients (n=68), 17.6% (12/68) were on mechanical ventilation and the remaining 82.3% (56/68) received oxygen therapy. One patient underwent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The hospital mortality rate observed among these ICU survivors was 10.2%. The Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) score at baseline i.e. before the ICU admission (52.5 (SD, 9.2); p<0.001) was better than that observed at the one-year follow-up (44.3 (SD, 9.5); p<0.001). Moreover, the clinical frailty scale and cognitive symptoms were significantly different at the follow up assessment versus the baseline (p<0.001). The proportion of patients with a grade of 0-2 on the Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scale was almost similar at baseline and the one-year follow-up, whereas a breathlessness grade of 3-4 on the scale was observed in 39.8% of the study population. Conclusion The management of ICU survivors after severe COVID requires a multi-disciplinary approach. It includes preventive measures and rehabilitation services along with appropriate treatment strategies to relieve the residual symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talarisree Chandrasekhar
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences Saveera Hospital, Anantapur, IND
| | - Calerappa Ravishankar
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences Saveera Hospital, Anantapur, IND
| | - Anke Geethanjali
- Department of Microbiology, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences Saveera Hospital, Anantapur, IND
| | - Talari Lahari
- Department of Ophthalmology, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences Saveera Hospital, Anantapur, IND
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Ahlberg M, Berterö C, Ågren S. Family functioning of families experiencing intensive care and the specific impact of the COVID-19 pandemic: A grounded theory study. Intensive Crit Care Nurs 2023; 76:103397. [PMID: 36731264 PMCID: PMC9868351 DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2023.103397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In order to provide a deeper understanding of family functioning, the aim of this study was to identify, describe and conceptualise the family functioning of families where a formerly critically ill family member had stayed at the intensive care unit, with the impact of a pandemic. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY/DESIGN The study has a grounded theory design including interviews with eight families. SETTING Former adult intensive care patients cared for Covid-19 infection and their family. Eight patients and twelve family members from three different intensive care units. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The results presented are grounded in data and identified in the core category "Existential issues" and the categories "Value considerateness; Anxiety and insecurity in life; Insight into the unpredictability of life." FINDINGS The core category could be found in all data and its relationship and impact on the categories and each other. The core is a theoretical construction, whereas the family functioning of families where a formerly critically ill family member had stayed at the intensive care unit was identified, described, and conceptualised. Being able to talk repeatedly about existential issues and the anxiety and insecurity in life, with people that have similar experiences helps the patient and their family to consider and gain insight into the unpredictability of life, and thereby better cope with changes in life. CONCLUSION There is awareness about the love that exists within the family. A willing to supporting each other in the family even if the critical illness made the family anxious and afraid. IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE Even if the pandemic Covid-19 led to restrictions inhibiting family focused nursing, it is important to confirm the family as a part of the caring of the ICU patient. The patients are not alone, their family are fighting together for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Ahlberg
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, and Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden,Department of Health, Medical and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden,Corresponding author at: Department of Clinical Pharmacology, and Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Carina Berterö
- Department of Health, Medical and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Susanna Ågren
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Department of Health, Medical and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Sweden
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Paul N, Cittadino J, Weiss B, Krampe H, Denke C, Spies CD. Subjective Ratings of Mental and Physical Health Correlate With EQ-5D-5L Index Values in Survivors of Critical Illness: A Construct Validity Study. Crit Care Med 2023; 51:365-375. [PMID: 36606801 PMCID: PMC9936981 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000005742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Survivors of critical illness commonly show impaired health-related quality of life (HrQoL). We investigated if HrQoL can be approximated by brief, easily applicable items to be used in primary care. DESIGN Secondary analysis of data from the multicenter, cluster-randomized controlled Enhanced Recovery after Intensive Care trial ( ClinicalTrials.gov : NCT03671447) and construct validity study. SETTING Ten participating clusters of ICUs in the metropolitan area of Berlin, Germany. PATIENTS Eight hundred fifty ICU survivors enrolled in a mixed, medical or surgical ICU when they had an expected ICU length of stay of at least 24 hours, were at least 18 years old, and had statutory health insurance coverage. INTERVENTIONS None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Patients received follow-ups scheduled 3 and 6 months after ICU discharge. HrQoL was assessed with the EuroQol 5-Dimension 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L), and patients were asked to rate their current mental and physical health state from 0 (worst) to 10 (best). We fitted prediction models for the EQ-5D-5L index value using these two items and additional covariates, applying stepwise regression and adaptive lasso. Subjective mental health (Spearman: 0.59) and subjective physical health (Spearman: 0.68) correlated with EQ-5D-5L index values and were better predictors of EQ-5D-5L index values in the two-item regression (normalized root mean squared error [nRMSE] 0.164; normalized mean absolute error [nMAE] 0.118; R2adj 0.43) than the EQ-5D Visual Analog Scale (nRMSE 0.175; nMAE 0.124; R2adj 0.35). Stepwise regression with additional covariates further increased prediction performance (nRMSE 0.133; nMAE 0.1; R2adj 0.51). CONCLUSIONS Asking patients to rate their subjective mental and physical health can be an easily applicable tool for a first impression of the HrQoL in primary care settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Paul
- All authors: Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Anesthesiology and Operative Intensive Care Medicine, Campus Charité Mitte and Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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Reck J, Gawlytta R, Kesselmeier M, Böttche M, Niemeyer H, Knaevelsrud C, Rosendahl J. [Differential Effects of an Internet-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Writing Therapy for Reducing PTSD Symptoms after Intensive Care: Results of a Per-Protocol Analysis]. PSYCHIATRISCHE PRAXIS 2023. [PMID: 36758588 DOI: 10.1055/a-1997-9556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the differential effects of an internet-based cognitive-behavioral writing therapy (iCBT) on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms after intensive care in patients and their spouses. METHODS This reanalysis of a randomized controlled trial compared PTSD symptom severity (measured by PCL-5) before and after therapy considering potential influencing factors in the per-protocol population. RESULTS A significant reduction in post-traumatic symptom severity after iCBT was found. Eleven of the 25 treated participants showed a clinically significant change (PCL-5 difference≥10 points). The number of words written by the participants in the therapy modules had a significant impact on iCBT efficacy. CONCLUSION iCBT appears to be a promising option to augment therapy for PTSD, particularly for physically impaired patients following critical illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Reck
- Institut für Psychosoziale Medizin, Psychotherapie und Psychoonkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Romina Gawlytta
- Institut für Psychosoziale Medizin, Psychotherapie und Psychoonkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Miriam Kesselmeier
- Institut für Medizinische Statistik, Informatik und Dokumentation, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Maria Böttche
- Arbeitsbereich Klinisch-Psychologische Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Zentrum ÜBERLEBEN gGmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Helen Niemeyer
- Arbeitsbereich Klinisch-Psychologische Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christine Knaevelsrud
- Arbeitsbereich Klinisch-Psychologische Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jenny Rosendahl
- Institut für Psychosoziale Medizin, Psychotherapie und Psychoonkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
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Wintermann GB, Weidner K, Strauss B, Rosendahl J. Rates and predictors of mental health care utilisation in patients following a prolonged stay on intensive care unit: a prospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e063468. [PMID: 36693695 PMCID: PMC9884925 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES An acute critical illness and secondary complications may necessitate a prolonged treatment on an intensive care unit (ICU). As long-term consequences, ICU survivors may suffer from both physical and psychological sequelae. To improve the aftercare of these patients, the present study aimed to assess the use of mental healthcare and associated factors following prolonged ICU stay. METHODS N=197 patients with a primary diagnosis of critical illness polyneuropathy/myopathy were enrolled within 4 weeks (T1) and interviewed three (T2) and six (T3) months following the transfer from acute-care to postacute ICU. Symptoms and a current diagnosis of major depression/post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were assessed using the Structured Clinical Interview for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The potential need for mental healthcare, its current and past use and reasons for non-use were raised. RESULTS Full syndromal and subsyndromal major depression/PTSD were diagnosed in 8.3%/15.6% at T2, 12.2%/23.5% at T3. About 29% of the patients reported mental healthcare utilisation. Considering somatic complaints, more important was a common reason for the non-use of mental healthcare. Female gender, previous mental healthcare, number of sepsis episodes and pension receipt increased the chance for mental healthcare utilisation, a pre-existing mental disorder decreased it. CONCLUSION Every fourth patient surviving prolonged ICU treatement makes use of mental healthcare . Particularly male patients with pre-existing mental disorders should be targeted preventively, receiving specific psychoeducation about psychological long-term sequelae and mental healthcare options post-ICU.Trial registration numberDRKS00003386.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria-Beatrice Wintermann
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Kerstin Weidner
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Bernhard Strauss
- Institute of Psychosocial Medicine, Psychotherapy and Psychooncology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Jenny Rosendahl
- Institute of Psychosocial Medicine, Psychotherapy and Psychooncology, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich-Schiller University, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
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Oh TK, Song IA. The economic burden and long-term mortality in survivors of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in South Korea. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 10:1266. [PMID: 36618782 PMCID: PMC9816823 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-2721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background The economic burden for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) survivors is a critical issue. We investigated the total healthcare costs for one year following ECMO support and its association with three-year all-cause mortality. Methods This population-based cohort study used data from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) in South Korea. Adult ECMO survivors (age ≥18 years who were alive ≥365 days following ECMO support) from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2018, were included. The total healthcare costs for one year included all the expenses for hospital and outpatient clinic visits after discharge. Results In total, 6,044 patients were included in the final analysis comprising 3,566 (59.0%) in the cardiac indication group, 658 (10.9%) in the respiratory indication group, and 1,820 (30.1%) in the "other" group. The median total healthcare cost was United States Dollars (USD) 46,308.0 [interquartile range (IQR): 25,727.0-86,924.8]. The median ECMO support and hospital stay durations were three (IQR: 1-7) days and 25 (IQR: 15-31) days. In the multivariable Cox regression model, a USD 1,000 increase in the total healthcare cost was associated with an increase in the three-year all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 1.01; 95% CI: 1.00-1.01; P=0.015). Conclusions After one year, ECMO survivors accrued USD 46,308 in healthcare costs in South Korea. An increase in the total healthcare cost was associated with a higher risk of three-year all-cause mortality among ECMO survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tak Kyu Oh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea;,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - In-Ae Song
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea;,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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Kang J, Yun S, Hong J. Health-related quality of life measured with the EQ-5D-5L in critical care survivors: A cross-sectional study. Intensive Crit Care Nurs 2022; 72:103252. [PMID: 35396103 DOI: 10.1016/j.iccn.2022.103252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and related factors in intensive care unit survivors one-12 months after discharge. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY/DESIGN This cross-sectional survey included survivors who had been admitted to an intensive care unit for ≥48 hours. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES HRQOL was measured using the EQ-5D-5L profile, which evaluates five dimensions of health (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression) on five levels (no, slight, moderate, severe, and extreme problems), EQ-VAS (score range 0-100, 100 indicating best health) and EQ values (score range -0.066-1, 1 indicating best health). The factors influencing HRQOL were analyzed by Tobit regression. SETTING Survivors treated in an intensive care unit at six institutions in Korea. RESULTS Only 7.9% of the 534 participants had self-reported profiles of no health problems in all five dimensions. The proportion of participants with slight problems was highest in pain/discomfort with 85.0%. The proportion with severe problems was highest in usual activities with 21.7%, followed by mobility with 21.0%. The median and interquartile range of the EQ-VAS and EQ values were 60.00 (45.00 to 75.00) and 0.72 (0.52 to 0.80), respectively. Negative impact factors on HRQOL included older age, women, residing in a long term care facility, unemployment, emergency intensive care admission, and intensive care stay ≥ 7 days. CONCLUSION HRQOL among Korean intensive care survivors is low. The level of problems in physical dimensions is more severe than that in mental health dimensions. Early rehabilitation in the intensive care unit should be provided to facilitate long-term recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Kang
- College of Nursing, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seonyoung Yun
- Department of Nursing, Youngsan University, Yangsan, Kyungnam, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jiwon Hong
- College of Nursing, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea.
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Neville TH, Hays RD, Tseng CH, Gonzalez CA, Chen L, Hong A, Yamamoto M, Santoso L, Kung A, Schwab K, Chang SY, Qadir N, Wang T, Wenger NS. Survival After Severe COVID-19: Long-Term Outcomes of Patients Admitted to an Intensive Care Unit. J Intensive Care Med 2022; 37:1019-1028. [PMID: 35382627 PMCID: PMC8990100 DOI: 10.1177/08850666221092687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the long-term sequelae of severe COVID-19 remains limited, particularly in the United States. OBJECTIVE To examine long-term outcomes of patients who required intensive care unit (ICU) admission for severe COVID-19. DESIGN, PATIENTS, AND MAIN MEASURES This is a prospective cohort study of patients who had severe COVID-19 requiring an ICU admission in a two-hospital academic health system in Southern California. Patients discharged alive between 3/21/2020 and 12/31/2020 were surveyed approximately 6 months after discharge to assess health-related quality of life using Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®)-29 v2.1, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and loneliness scales. A preference-based health utility score (PROPr) was estimated using 7 PROMIS domain scores. Patients were also asked their attitude about receiving aggressive ICU care. KEY RESULTS Of 275 patients admitted to the ICU for severe COVID-19, 205 (74.5%) were discharged alive and 132 (64%, median age 59, 46% female) completed surveys a median of 182 days post-discharge. Anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep disturbance, ability to participate in social activities, pain interference, and cognitive function were not significantly different from the U.S. general population, but physical function (44.2, SD 11.0) was worse. PROPr mean score of 0.46 (SD 0.30, range -0.02 to 0.96 [<0 is worse than dead and 1 represents perfect health]) was slightly lower than the U.S. general population, with an even distribution across the continuum. Poor PROPr was associated with chronic medical conditions and receipt of life-sustaining treatments, but not demographics or social vulnerability. PTSD was suspected in 20% and loneliness in 29% of patients. Ninety-eight percent of patients were glad they received life-saving treatment. CONCLUSION Most patients who survive severe COVID-19 achieve positive outcomes, with health scores similar to the general population at 6 months post-discharge. However, there is marked heterogeneity in outcomes with a substantial minority reporting severely compromised health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh H Neville
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ron D Hays
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Chi-Hong Tseng
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Cynthia A Gonzalez
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lucia Chen
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ashley Hong
- 8783University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Myrtle Yamamoto
- Department of Medicine, Quality, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Laura Santoso
- Department of Medicine, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alina Kung
- Department of Medicine, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kristin Schwab
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Steve Y Chang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Nida Qadir
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Tisha Wang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Neil S Wenger
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Health Services Research, 12222David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Gawlytta R, Kesselmeier M, Scherag A, Niemeyer H, Böttche M, Knaevelsrud C, Rosendahl J. Internet-based cognitive-behavioural writing therapy for reducing post-traumatic stress after severe sepsis in patients and their spouses (REPAIR): results of a randomised-controlled trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e050305. [PMID: 35264337 PMCID: PMC8915321 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the efficacy, safety and applicability of internet-based, therapist-led partner-assisted cognitive-behavioural writing therapy (iCBT) for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms after intensive care for sepsis in patients and their spouses compared with a waitlist (WL) control group. DESIGN Randomised-controlled, parallel group, open-label, superiority trial with concealed allocation. SETTING Internet-based intervention in Germany; location-independent via web-portal. PARTICIPANTS Patients after intensive care for sepsis and their spouses of whom at least one had a presumptive PTSD diagnosis (PTSD-Checklist (PCL-5)≥33). Initially planned sample size: 98 dyads. INTERVENTIONS ICBT group: 10 writing assignments over a 5-week period; WL control group: 5-week waiting period. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome: pre-post change in PTSD symptom severity (PCL-5). SECONDARY OUTCOMES remission of PTSD, depression, anxiety and somatisation, relationship satisfaction, health-related quality of life, premature termination of treatment. Outcomes measures were applied pre and post treatment and at 3, 6 and 12 months follow-up. RESULTS Twenty-five dyads representing 34 participants with a presumptive PTSD diagnosis were randomised and analysed (ITT principle). There was no evidence for a difference in PCL-5 pre-post change for iCBT compared with WL (mean difference -0.96, 95% CI (-5.88 to 3.97), p=0.703). No adverse events were reported. Participants confirmed the applicability of iCBT. CONCLUSIONS ICBT was applied to reduce PTSD symptoms after intensive care for sepsis, for the first time addressing both patients and their spouses. It was applicable and safe in the given population. There was no evidence for the efficacy of iCBT on PTSD symptom severity. Due to the small sample size our findings remain preliminary but can guide further research, which is needed to determine if modified approaches to post-intensive care PTSD may be more effective. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER DRKS00010676.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina Gawlytta
- Institute of Psychosocial Medicine, Psychotherapy and Psychooncology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Miriam Kesselmeier
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Computer and Data Sciences, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Andre Scherag
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Computer and Data Sciences, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Helen Niemeyer
- Department of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Böttche
- Department of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Zentrum ÜBERLEBEN gGmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christine Knaevelsrud
- Department of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jenny Rosendahl
- Institute of Psychosocial Medicine, Psychotherapy and Psychooncology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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Schmidt KFR, Huelle K, Reinhold T, Prescott HC, Gehringer R, Hartmann M, Lehmann T, Mueller F, Reinhart K, Schneider N, Schroevers MJ, Kosilek RP, Vollmar HC, Heintze C, Gensichen JS, the SMOOTH Study Group. Healthcare Utilization and Costs in Sepsis Survivors in Germany-Secondary Analysis of a Prospective Cohort Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11041142. [PMID: 35207415 PMCID: PMC8879304 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11041142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Survivors of sepsis often face long-term sequelae after intensive care treatment. Compared to the period of hospitalization, little is known about the ambulatory healthcare utilization in sepsis patients. The study evaluated healthcare utilization and associated costs of sepsis care including allied health professions after initial hospitalization. Methods: Secondary analysis was performed on data in 210 sepsis patients prospectively enrolled from nine intensive care study centers across Germany. Data was collected via structured surveys among their Primary care (Family-) physicians (PCPs) within the first month after discharge from ICU (baseline) and again at 6, 12 and 24 months after discharge, each relating to the period following the last survey. Costs were assessed by standardized cost unit rates from a health care system’s perspective. Changes in healthcare utilization and costs over time were calculated using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Results: Of the 210 patients enrolled, 146 (69.5%) patients completed the 24 months follow-up. In total, 109 patients were hospitalized within the first 6 months post-intensive care. Mean total direct costs per patient at 0–6 months were €17,531 (median: €6047), at 7–12 months €9029 (median: €3312), and at 13–24 months €18,703 (median: €12,828). The largest contributor to the total direct costs within the first 6 months was re-hospitalizations (€13,787 (median: €2965). After this first half year, we observed a significant decline in inpatient care costs for re-hospitalizations (p ≤ 0.001). PCPs were visited by more than 95% of patients over 24 months. Conclusions: Sepsis survivors have high health care utilization. Hospital readmissions are frequent and costly. Highest costs and hospitalizations were observed in more than half of patients within the first six months post-intensive care. Among all outpatient care providers, PCPs were consulted most frequently. Clinical impact: Sepsis survivors have a high healthcare utilization and related costs which persist after discharge from hospital. Within outpatient care, possible needs of sepsis survivors as physiotherapy or psychotherapy seem not to be met appropriately. Development of sepsis aftercare programs for early detection and treatment of complications should be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konrad F. R. Schmidt
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, D-07743 Jena, Germany; (K.H.); (R.G.)
- Center of Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, D-07747 Jena, Germany
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Charité University Medicine, D-10117 Berlin, Germany;
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +49-3641-9395800 or +49-30-450-514-133; Fax: +49-3641-9395802 or +49-30-450-514-932
| | - Katharina Huelle
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, D-07743 Jena, Germany; (K.H.); (R.G.)
| | - Thomas Reinhold
- Institute of Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Charité University Medicine, D-10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Hallie C. Prescott
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5368, USA;
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Rebekka Gehringer
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, D-07743 Jena, Germany; (K.H.); (R.G.)
| | - Michael Hartmann
- Hospital Pharmacy, Jena University Hospital, D-07747 Jena, Germany;
| | - Thomas Lehmann
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Information Sciences and Documentation, Jena University Hospital, D-07747 Jena, Germany;
| | - Friederike Mueller
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, D-07743 Jena, Germany; (K.H.); (R.G.)
- Thiem-Research GmbH, Carl-Thiem-Klinikum, D-03048 Cottbus, Germany;
| | - Konrad Reinhart
- Center of Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, D-07747 Jena, Germany
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité University Medicine Berlin, D-10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Nico Schneider
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, D-07743 Jena, Germany; (K.H.); (R.G.)
- Institute of Psychosocial Medicine and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, D-07743 Jena, Germany;
| | - Maya J. Schroevers
- Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, NL-9700 AB Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Robert P. Kosilek
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, D-80336 Munich, Germany; (R.P.K.); (J.S.G.)
| | - Horst C. Vollmar
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, D-07743 Jena, Germany; (K.H.); (R.G.)
- Department of Family Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum Medical School, D-44801 Bochum, Germany;
| | - Christoph Heintze
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Charité University Medicine, D-10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Jochen S. Gensichen
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, D-07743 Jena, Germany; (K.H.); (R.G.)
- Center of Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, D-07747 Jena, Germany
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, D-80336 Munich, Germany; (R.P.K.); (J.S.G.)
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11
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Rohr M, Brandstetter S, Bernardi C, Fisser C, Drewitz KP, Brunnthaler V, Schmidt K, Malfertheiner MV, Apfelbacher CJ. Piloting an ICU follow-up clinic to improve health-related quality of life in ICU survivors after a prolonged intensive care stay (PINA): study protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2021; 7:90. [PMID: 33785064 PMCID: PMC8007452 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-021-00796-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intensive care unit (ICU) survivors often suffer from cognitive, physical and mental impairments, known as post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). ICU follow-up clinics may improve aftercare of these patients. There is a lack of evidence whether or which concept of an ICU follow-up clinic is effective. Within the PINA study, a concept for an ICU follow-up clinic was developed and will be tested in a pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT), primarily to evaluate the feasibility and additionally the potential efficacy. Methods/design Design: Pilot RCT with intervention and control (usual care) arms plus mixed-methods process evaluation. Participants: 100 ICU patients (50 per arm) of three ICUs in a university hospital (Regensburg, Germany), ≥ 18 years with an ICU stay of > 5 days, a sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score > 5 during the ICU stay and a life expectancy of more than 6 months. Intervention: The intervention will contain three components: information, consultation and networking. Information will be available in form of an intensive care guide for patients and next of kin at the ICU and phone support during follow-up. For consultation, patients will visit the ICU follow-up clinic at least once during the first 6 months after discharge from ICU. During these visits, patients will be screened for symptoms of PICS and, if required, referred to specialists for further treatment. The networking part (e.g. special referral letter from the ICU follow-up clinic) aims to provide a network of outpatient care providers for former ICU patients. Feasibility Outcomes: Qualitative and quantitative evaluation will be used to explore reasons for non-participation and the intervention´s acceptability to patients and caregivers. Efficacy Outcomes: Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) will be assessed as primary outcome by the physical component score (PCS) of the Short-Form 12 Questionnaire (SF-12). Secondary outcomes encompass further patient-reported outcomes. All outcomes are assessed at 6 months after discharge from ICU. Discussion The PINA study will determine feasibility and potential efficacy of a complex intervention in a pilot RCT to enhance follow-up care of ICU survivors. The pilot study is an important step for further studies in the field of ICU aftercare and especially for the implementation of a pragmatic multi-centre RCT. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04186468. Submitted 2 December 2019 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40814-021-00796-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rohr
- Medical Sociology, Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Dr.-Gessler-Str. 17, 93051, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - S Brandstetter
- Medical Sociology, Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Dr.-Gessler-Str. 17, 93051, Regensburg, Germany.,University Children's Hospital Regensburg, University of Regensburg, Klinik St. Hedwig, Steinmetzstr., 1-3, 93049, Regensburg, Germany
| | - C Bernardi
- Medical Sociology, Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Dr.-Gessler-Str. 17, 93051, Regensburg, Germany
| | - C Fisser
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - K P Drewitz
- Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - V Brunnthaler
- Medical Sociology, Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Dr.-Gessler-Str. 17, 93051, Regensburg, Germany
| | - K Schmidt
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Charité University Medicine, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.,Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Bachstr. 18, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - M V Malfertheiner
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauss-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - C J Apfelbacher
- Medical Sociology, Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Dr.-Gessler-Str. 17, 93051, Regensburg, Germany.,Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
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12
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Konda SR, Johnson JR, Dedhia N, Kelly EA, Egol KA. Can We Stratify Quality and Cost for Older Patients With Proximal and Midshaft Humerus Fractures? Geriatr Orthop Surg Rehabil 2021; 12:2151459321992742. [PMID: 33680532 PMCID: PMC7900848 DOI: 10.1177/2151459321992742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: This study sought to investigate whether a validated trauma triage tool can
stratify hospital quality measures and inpatient cost for middle-aged and
geriatric trauma patients with isolated proximal and midshaft humerus
fractures. Materials and Methods: Patients aged 55 and older who sustained a proximal or midshaft humerus
fracture and required inpatient treatment were included. Patient
demographic, comorbidity, and injury severity information was used to
calculate each patient’s Score for Trauma Triage in the Geriatric and
Middle-Aged (STTGMA). Based on scores, patients were stratified to create
minimal, low, moderate, and high risk groups. Outcomes included length of
stay, complications, operative management, ICU/SDU-level care, discharge
disposition, unplanned readmission, and index admission costs. Results: Seventy-four patients with 74 humerus fractures met final inclusion criteria.
Fifty-eight (78.4%) patients presented with proximal humerus and 16 (21.6%)
with midshaft humerus fractures. Mean length of stay was 5.5 ± 3.4 days with
a significant difference among risk groups (P = 0.029). Lower risk patients
were more likely to undergo surgical management (P = 0.015) while higher
risk patients required more ICU/SDU-level care (P < 0.001). Twenty-six
(70.3%) minimal risk patients were discharged home compared to zero high
risk patients (P = 0.001). Higher risk patients experienced higher total
inpatient costs across operative and nonoperative treatment groups. Conclusion: The STTGMA tool is able to reliably predict hospital quality measures and
cost outcomes that may allow hospitals and providers to improve value-based
care and clinical decision-making for patients presenting with proximal and
midshaft humerus fractures. Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjit R Konda
- NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, Queens, NY, USA
| | - Joseph R Johnson
- NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicket Dedhia
- NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Erin A Kelly
- NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kenneth A Egol
- NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.,Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, Queens, NY, USA
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13
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Kang J, Jeong YJ, Hong J. Cut-Off Values of the Post-Intensive Care Syndrome Questionnaire for the Screening of Unplanned Hospital Readmission within One Year. J Korean Acad Nurs 2020; 50:787-798. [PMID: 33441526 DOI: 10.4040/jkan.20233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to assign weights for subscales and items of the Post-Intensive Care Syndrome questionnaire and suggest optimal cut-off values for screening unplanned hospital readmissions of critical care survivors. METHODS Seventeen experts participated in an analytic hierarchy process for weight assignment. Participants for cut-off analysis were 240 survivors who had been admitted to intensive care units for more than 48 hours in three cities in Korea. We assessed participants using the 18-item Post-Intensive Care Syndrome questionnaire, generated receiver operating characteristic curves, and analysed cut-off values for unplanned readmission based on sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratios. RESULTS Cognitive, physical, and mental subscale weights were 1.13, 0.95, and 0.92, respectively. Incidence of unplanned readmission was 25.4%. Optimal cut-off values were 23.00 for raw scores and 23.73 for weighted scores (total score 54.00), with an area of under the curve (AUC) of .933 and .929, respectively. There was no significant difference in accuracy for original and weighted scores. CONCLUSION The optimal cut-off value accuracy is excellent for screening of unplanned readmissions. We recommend that nurses use the Post-Intensive Care Syndrome Questionnaire to screen for readmission risk or evaluating relevant interventions for critical care survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyeon Kang
- College of Nursing, Dong-A University, Busan, Korea
| | | | - Jiwon Hong
- College of Nursing, Dong-A University, Busan, Korea.
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