Post-traumatic stress disorder in intensive care survivors
A role for primary care Advances in intensive care medicine have improved survival rates, yet post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remains a prevalent and often underdiagnosed consequence among patients who are discharged from intensive care units.1 Approximately 20% of these individuals develop PTSD symptoms, which can lead to lasting impairments in quality of life, occupational functioning, and overall physical health.23 Contributing factors include exposure to life threatening conditions, invasive procedures, prolonged isolation, and a profound loss of control.45 Early identification and targeted support of PTSD symptoms after ICU care are essential because systematic screening and tailored intervention can significantly reduce long term psychiatric impairment.6 Despite increasing awareness of PTSD after ICU care, access to effective treatments remains limited. Cognitive behavioural therapy and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing are well established treatments for PTSD,
