Life after ICU - a study of the patient's perspective

In recent years there has been increasing recognition within the critical care community that patients who have been critically ill can face specific physical and psychological challenges in recovering from their experiences. Research is underway to look at specific aspects of recovery for ex-ICU patients that will pull together information on the outcome of large numbers of patients after they are initially discharged from ICU.

Kate Deacon, a researcher with a background in intensive care nursing, is now undertaking a study that aims to make sure the things that matter most to patients are identified and concentrated on. This research aims to complement the work being done by others in this area by taking a very open, qualitative approach, getting the perspective of the ex-ICU patient by asking the question - 'what do you think is important?'. When completed, it is hoped this study will ensure the patient's perspective is part of the research evidence that can help shape critical illness services in the future.

Can you help?

If you're an adult who has been a patient in Intensive Care, you can help with this study. If you're willing to share your experiences and perspective about recovering from critical illness please visit to the study site.

By sharing what we've been through, intensive care patients have the chance to help make things a little easier for those going through similar experiences in the future.