[Prevention and treatment of long-term sequelae in critically ill patients-the responsibility of intensive care medicine].

BACKGROUND

Patients who have survived a critical illness requiring intensive care treatment often suffer from persistent complaints, collectively referred to as post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). This syndrome includes both new and worsening symptoms that impair the quality of life and restrict activities of daily living and often hinder successful social and occupational reintegration. In addition to improving acute treatment, the transition from the intensive care unit (ICU) to standard care and long-term follow-up are rapidly becoming an important area of care improvement.

OBJECTIVE

This review identifies and discusses relevant risk factors as well as preventive and therapeutic measures for the long-term care of critically ill patients. The focus is on the role of intensive care medicine in setting the course for optimal follow-up after critical illness.

METHODS

Based on a systematic literature search, the results of previous studies are narratively synthesized to derive implications for the scientific and clinical practice.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Up to 70% of critically ill patients experience relevant impairments during the first year after intensive care treatment. Besides optimization of acute treatment depending on individual needs, the systematic documentation and seamless communication of information regarding the intensive care course as well as close interdisciplinary collaboration are essential to minimize long-term complications. Intensive care medicine plays a key role in the care of critically ill patients even beyond ICU discharge by ensuring that, through sound decision-making and planning of the next steps during intensive care, short-term, medium-term and long-term goals can be achieved in a timely manner.