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Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) - Let's talk

Intensive Care (ICU) | Last Active: Sep 16 7:52pm | Replies (609)

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@rosemarya

@mjkrr2, @howemb, For me it was 11 years ago that I had my ICU experience. I had a critical week with end stage liver failure and acute kidney failure and was aware that hospice was being discussed as my only option. A most wonderful change of events began on day 7 with an air transport to Mayo, and eventual transplant.
In the time after ICU and critical condition, I was confused by what had happened as well as the gaps in my memory/awareness of time. For months and even years afterwards, I kept asking my husband about "what" had gone on. It was painful for him each time I brought it up because he lived those awful moments, too. It took me a long time to accept that there were things he did not know, for example details about procedures and people where he was not in the room with me.
Over the years, I have had conversations with friends who have had stays in ICU for a variety of reasons. They, too, are experiencing hallucinations and memory issues as you have mentioned. And they always say that their loved ones think they should just forget about it and move on. I will say to you, as I have said to them, "I understand; I get it" It helps to know that you are not alone, and it helps to have a place to talk about it. I am happy that you have joined us.
Have you been able to talk to anyone who was "there" about any of the situations related to the hallucinations?

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Replies to "@mjkrr2, @howemb, For me it was 11 years ago that I had my ICU experience. I..."

Thank you. I have a wonderful husband that kept detailed records for 7 long months, he was there by my side constantly and when he wasn’t our son was able to be there. I realize how lucky I was, I cannot imagine if COVID19 had been around last year when I was in the hospital. I have a fabulous family doctor that kept in touch daily and once I got home came a visited me a few times a week. Just recently I have been referred to a psychiatrist who specializes in ICU patients.