postICU

PostICU refers to the period after a patient leaves the intensive care unit following a critical illness or major medical event. It is commonly discussed in relation to Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS), a constellation of persistent physical, cognitive, and mental health impairments that can continue for weeks to months after ICU discharge. The post-ICU phase also includes effects on families and caregivers, sometimes described as PICS-Family.

People emerging from the ICU may experience a range of symptoms. Physically, they often have weakness, fatigue, and reduced exercise tolerance due to muscle wasting and deconditioning. Cognitively, impairments in attention, memory, and executive function are reported. Mentally, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress symptoms can occur. Sleep disturbances and ongoing respiratory or pain symptoms are also common. These problems can interfere with daily activities, return to work, and overall quality of life, and they may persist long after hospital discharge.

Risk factors for more prolonged post-ICU issues include older age, higher severity of illness, delirium during the ICU stay, longer duration of mechanical ventilation, multi-organ dysfunction, and preexisting comorbidities. Recovery trajectories vary widely; many survivors improve gradually over months, but a subset experiences long-term limitations.

Management emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach. Early mobilization and physical rehabilitation during ICU stay, followed by structured post-ICU rehabilitation, cognitive therapy, and mental health support, can mitigate some effects. Follow-up clinics and caregiver involvement play roles in monitoring recovery and coordinating ongoing care.