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To explore the qualitative literature regarding the experiences of survivors of critical illness re-engaging in activities of daily living.
Qualitative systematic review.
Databases were searched with three broad categories of search terms: (1) critical illness, (2) activities of daily living, and (3) participant experiences. Articles were included if they reported qualitative data on the experiences of adults who were re-engaging with activities of daily living after admission to an intensive care unit. The findings from these studies were thematically analysed.
A search of Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO and AMED was conducted on the 9th September 2024.
After removing duplicates, the literature search identified 6267 articles. The full texts of 120 articles were reviewed, and 44 were included for data extraction. Thematic analysis identified three themes: (1) loss of autonomy, (2) striving to reclaim independence, and (3) shifting familial dynamics and imposing a burden.
Survivors of critical illness face significant challenges when re-engaging with daily activities. The effort to regain autonomy often leads to feelings of helplessness and a reluctance to engage in both daily tasks and social activities. The emotional burden of dependence and the perception of being a burden further complicate their recovery.
Health services should focus on integrating physical rehabilitation, mealtime support, and cognitive and psychological therapy to effectively cater to the diverse needs of critical illness survivors and their families.
This review highlights the complex challenges of re-engaging in activities of daily living after critical illness and emphasises the need for multidisciplinary rehabilitation to improve physical, cognitive, and emotional recovery.
Reporting of this review followed the ENTREQ checklist, in accordance with EQUATOR guidelines.
No Patient or Public Contribution.
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