Exploring the impact of critical illness on family members of ICU patients
Incidence and Factors Associated to The Development of Post-Intensive Care Syndrome Among Family Members of Intensive Care Unit Survivors: A Longitudinal Exploratory Study
This study looks at how being a family member of someone who has been in the ICU affects their mental and physical health over time.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 175 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (La Florida, RM) |
| Trial ID | NCT05827354 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the incidence and contributing factors of Post Intensive Care Syndrome - Family (PICS-F) among family members of ICU survivors. It aims to understand the long-term psychological, physical, and cognitive impairments that these family members may experience after their loved ones' critical illness. By focusing on psychosocial factors, caregiver burden, and family satisfaction, the study seeks to fill existing knowledge gaps regarding the effects of ICU experiences on family members. Conducted at a public hospital in Chile, this longitudinal exploratory study will track participants over time to gather comprehensive data on their health outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adult family members of ICU patients who are Spanish speakers and likely to provide care after hospital discharge.
Not a fit: Patients who are in end-of-life care or are expected to be discharged from the ICU within 24 hours will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved support and interventions for family members of ICU patients, enhancing their mental health and overall well-being.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on PICS-F, studies on related psychosocial impacts of critical illness on families have shown promising results, indicating that this area is gaining attention but still requires further exploration.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: All adult family members (≥ 18 years old) identified as the patient´s representative, Spanish speakers, and likely to become responsible for providing and/or coordinating patient care after hospital discharge will be eligible. Besides, the patient must have between 48 hours and 10 days in the ICU, be \> 18 years old, and receive respiratory support (noninvasive ventilation, high-flow nasal cannula, or invasive mechanical ventilation). Exclusion Criteria: Family members of ICU patients with a high impending death risk (including end-of-life care / only comfort measures) or likely to be discharged from the ICU in the following 24 hours will be excluded. Subjects (family members) will be withdrawn from the study at any point if the patient dies.
Where this trial is running
La Florida, RM
- Hospital Clinico Dra. Eloisa I. Diaz — La Florida, Rm, Chile (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Cristobal Padilla F., PhD — Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile
- Study coordinator: Cristobal Padilla F., PhD
- Email: cfpadill@uc.cl
- Phone: +56964587104
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.