In Phase 1, we focused on interviewing participants from Fraser Health. In Phase 2, we extended recruitment across the province. We found that critical illness recovery was complicated by challenges with employment and finances, home set-up, transportation, food and nutrition, medications, and social support (publication linked below). We also found that subpar hospital discharge and the challenges of transitioning home, along with difficulties accessing assistance post-discharge, were distressing for survivors and their families. This left vulnerable patients susceptible to ongoing or new health issues (publication in progress). Our findings showed that greater patient needs for assistance coupled with fewer caregiver supports appeared to worsen caregiver strain (publication in progress). We are now in the process of developing an explanatory model of unplanned rehospitalization.

We are doing this study to understand the experiences of those who survive a critical illness and recover at home. Most individuals treated in an intensive care unit (ICU) will survive, yet many people will suffer new or worsening physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Participants are not required to have experienced these symptoms. Benefits of this study are connecting with others who have gone through the same experiences as you.