Factors to consider when designing post-hospital interventions to support critical illness recovery: Systematic review and qualitative evidence synthesis
2025

Designing Post-Hospital Interventions for ICU Recovery

Sample size: 37 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Jonathan Stewart, Ellen Pauley, Danielle Wilson, Judy Bradley, Nigel Hart, Danny McAuley

Primary Institution: Queen’s University Belfast

Hypothesis

What factors impact the implementation of post-hospital interventions to support recovery for ICU survivors?

Conclusion

The review provides a framework for future research on optimal approaches to support ICU survivor recovery after hospital discharge.

Supporting Evidence

  • ICU survivors often face long-term health issues that affect their quality of life.
  • Post-hospital interventions are becoming more common but lack strong evidence for effectiveness.
  • Qualitative data from patients and healthcare providers can inform better intervention designs.

Takeaway

This study looks at how to help people recover after being in the ICU by understanding what works best for them after they leave the hospital.

Methodology

A systematic review and qualitative evidence synthesis using four databases, informed by CFIR and TIDieR frameworks.

Potential Biases

Potential biases may exist due to the authors' prior experiences and preconceived ideas about intervention implementation.

Limitations

The study findings should be interpreted with caution as all studies were included regardless of methodological quality.

Participant Demographics

Included adults previously admitted to ICU, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1177/17511437241308674

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