title: Post-ICU syndrome: Rescuing the undiagnosed.
abstract: Survivors of critical illness may develop postintensive care syndrome (PICS), a spectrum of conditions that include persistent cognitive dysfunction, acquired weakness, and intrusive memories akin to post-traumatic stress disorder. Relatively few ICU survivors are routinely followed in the outpatient setting by intensivists, but are regularly evaluated by primary care physicians and physician assistants in their practices. Specific and focused education about the key features of PICS, its effect on patients as well as family members, and potential therapeutic interventions may increase recognition of PICS and reduce its effect on survivors of critical illness.
authors.affiliation: Elizabeth A. Myers practices emergency medicine at Medstar Southern Maryland Hospital Center in Clinton, Md. David A. Smith is an assistant professor in the PA program at Salus University in Elkins Park, Pa., and practices critical care medicine in the surgical ICU at the Philadelphia (Pa.) VA Medical Center. Steven R. Allen is a trauma surgeon and critical care intensivist at Penn State's Hershey (Pa.) Medical Center. Lewis J. Kaplan is the section chief, surgical critical care, and interim chief of surgery at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center, and an associate professor of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pa. The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
authors.forename: Elizabeth A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Myers
authors.forename: David A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: Steven R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Allen
authors.forename: Lewis J
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: Kaplan
mesh_terms: D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D003422:Critical Care / Q000379:methods*; D016638:Critical Illness / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D057210:Delayed Diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D017741:Survivors / Q000523:psychology*; D013577:Syndrome