Document Type
Article
Language
eng
Format of Original
5 p.
Publication Date
9-2014
Publisher
Elsevier
Source Publication
Heart & Lung
Source ISSN
0147-9563
Original Item ID
doi: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2014.04.007
Abstract
Objectives
To describe intensive care unit (ICU) patients' delusional memories and interpretations of those memories.
Background
Delusional memories of the ICU are distressing for patients and may impact psychological recovery.
Methods
This is a secondary analysis from a study of mechanically ventilated patients' recall in relation to sedation. Subjects, recruited from one medical-surgical ICU, participated in structured interviews after extubation.
Results
Subjects (n = 35) with a mean age of 66 (SD 12.9) and on the ventilator a median of 4.5 days provided detailed descriptions of delusional memories of being shackled, caged, strangled, or being in a foreign country. Delusions were very real and frightening in the moment. Subjects had difficulty connecting to reality to allow processing of the delusions.
Conclusions
Patients' delusional memories of ICU share common distressing themes. Assisting patients' to connect to real ICU events and process delusional memories may help with psychological recovery after critical illness.
Recommended Citation
Guttormson, Jill L., "“Releasing a Lot of Poisons from My Mind”: Patients' Delusional Memories of Intensive Care" (2014). College of Nursing Faculty Research and Publications. 350.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/nursing_fac/350
Comments
Accepted version. Heart & Lung: The Journal of Acute and Critical Care, Vol. 43, No. 5 (September-October 2014): 427-431. DOI. © Elsevier. Used with permission.