Quality of Life After Surgical ICU Stay
Author Information
Author(s): Fernando J Abelha, Christina C Santos, Paula C Maia, Maria A Castro, Henrique Barros
Primary Institution: Hospital de São João, Porto, Portugal
Hypothesis
What factors determine health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and independence in activities of daily living (ADL) six months after ICU discharge?
Conclusion
Patients' ASA-PS, age, type of surgery, ICU length of stay, and SAPS II are important determinants of health-related quality of life.
Supporting Evidence
- 59% of patients reported better health compared to one year earlier.
- 60% were dependent in at least one instrumental activity of daily living.
- Logistic regression showed that higher ASA-PS and age were associated with greater dependency.
Takeaway
After staying in the ICU, many patients feel better but still need help with daily activities. Their health can depend on their age and how sick they were before.
Methodology
Post-operative adult patients were surveyed using the SF-36 questionnaire and an ADL assessment six months after ICU discharge.
Potential Biases
Non-respondents may have had poorer quality of life, affecting the results.
Limitations
The study lacked data on patients' employment status before ICU admission and did not evaluate HRQOL prior to admission.
Participant Demographics
64% male, median age 65 years, 54% ASA-PS III/IV, 85% scheduled surgery.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.016
Confidence Interval
1.01 – 1.11
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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