title: Sedation and its psychological effects following intensive care.
abstract: Significant psychological impacts, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), have been associated with patients under sedation in intensive care units (ICUs). However, it remains unknown if and how sedation is related to post-ICU psychological outcomes. This literature review explores the relationships between sedation, the depth of sedation and psychological disorders. A review of existing literature was undertaken systematically with key terms and included peer-reviewed primary research and randomised controlled trials (RCTs). To ensure subject relevance pre-2006, non-English and paediatric-based research was excluded. Findings highlighted that reduced sedation levels did not significantly reduce the outcome of PTSD, yet reduced ICU length of stay and length of mechanical ventilation (MV) were both associated with lighter sedation. Further research is recommended into more specific factual and delusional memories post ICU in relation to the level of sedation and to psychological distress.
authors: Registered Nurse, Critical Care Unit, Mid Yorkshire NHS Trust.
authors: Clare
authors: C
authors: Croxall
authors: Moira
authors: M
authors: Tyas
authors: Joanne
authors: J
authors: Garside
mesh_terms: D064648:Critical Care Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology*; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology*
chemical_list: D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives
keywords: Intensive care; Mechanical ventilation; Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); Psychological distress; Sedation