Surviving ICU: Stories of recovery
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
Journal of Advanced Nursing
Publisher
Blackwell Publishing Ltd
School
School of Nursing and Midwifery
RAS ID
26409
Abstract
Aim
The aim of this study was to investigate stories of recovery through the lens of intensive care unit (ICU) survivors.
Background
Survival from ICUs is increasing, as are associated physical and psychological complications. Despite the significant impact on survivors, there is inadequate support provision in Australia and world‐wide for this population.
Design
An interpretive biographical approach of intensive care survivors’ experiences of recovery.
Methods
Data were collected during 2014–2015 from diaries, face to face interviews, memos and field notes. Six participants diarized for 3 months commencing 2 months after hospital discharge. At 5 months, participants were interviewed about the content of their diaries and symbols and signifiers in them to create a shared meaning. Analysis of diaries and interviews were undertaken using two frameworks to identify themes throughout participants’ stories and provides a unique portrait of recovery through their individual lens.
Findings
Participants considered their lives had irreparably changed and yet felt unsupported by a healthcare system that had “saved” them. This view through their lens identified turmoil, which existed between their surface and inner worlds as they struggled to conform to what recovery “should be”.
Conclusion
The novel biographical methods provided a safe and creative way to reveal survivors’ inner thoughts and feelings. Participants’ considered creating their stories supported their recovery process and in particular enabled them to reflect on their progress. Findings from this study may lead to increased awareness among health care providers about problems survivors face and improved support services more broadly, based on frameworks appropriate for this population.
DOI
10.1111/jan.13556
Access Rights
subscription content
Comments
Ewens, B. A., Hendricks, J. M., & Sundin, D. (2018). Surviving ICU: Stories of recovery. Journal of advanced nursing, 74 (7), p.1554-1563. Available here