Predictors of symptoms of posttraumatic stress and depression in family members after patient death in the ICU.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Patients' deaths in the ICU have been associated with a high burden of psychologic symptoms in families. This study identifies characteristics associated with psychologic symptoms in family members.

Methods

Families of patients dying in the ICU or within 30 h of ICU discharge in 11 hospitals previously participated in a randomized trial. In the current study, we assessed these families for symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression with follow-up surveys. Outcomes included validated measures of PTSD (PTSD Checklist) and depressive (Patient Health Questionnaire) symptoms. Predictors included family member mental-health history, involvement in decision making, and demographics.

Results

Surveys were completed by 226 families. Response rate

SUBMITTER: Gries CJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2816640 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature