Long-Term Consequences of Critical Illness

The document from 2012 outlines the extensive long-term physical and psychological effects faced by patients after critical illness, including a wide range of issues such as respiratory dysfunction, cardiovascular complications, muscle wasting, hair loss, and severe psychological disorders like PTSD and depression. It emphasizes that recovery can be prolonged, with many patients not returning to work within a year and experiencing a lower quality of life compared to the general population. Cognitive impairments are also noted, often linked to the duration of delirium during the illness, leading to increased caregiver dependence. The socioeconomic impact is highlighted by the fact that only 49% of ARDS patients return to work after one year. The document advocates for early, individualized rehabilitation programs and specialized follow-up clinics to improve long-term outcomes, as recommended by NICE guidelines. However, it also points out the lack of universal access to specific critical care follow-up services, underlining the need for vigilant patient referral to address their complex needs.