Depressive symptoms and anxiety in intensive care unit (ICU) survivors after ICU discharge

BackgroundThe association between intensive care unit (ICU) survivors' psychological sequelae, individual care needs, and discharge disposition has not been evaluated.ObjectiveTo describe depressive symptoms and anxiety in ICU survivors and explore these symptoms based on individual care needs and discharge disposition for 4 months post-ICU discharge.MethodsWe analyzed data from 39 ICU survivors who self-reported measures of depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression 10 items [CESD-10]) and anxiety (Shortened Profile of Mood States-Anxiety subscale [POMS-A]).ResultsA majority of patients reported CESD-10 scores above the cut off (≥ 8) indicating risk for clinical depression. POMS-A scores were highest within 2 weeks post-ICU discharge and decreased subsequently. Data trends suggest worse depressive symptoms and anxiety when patients had moderate to high care needs and/or were unable to return home.ConclusionICU survivors who need caregiver assistance and extended institutional care reported trends of worse depressive symptoms and anxiety.