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

Hello Everyone,

I'm an ARDS survivor and I spent a week or so on the ventilator and almost 2 weeks in the ICU. I've had the same issues as nearly everyone in this group, which tells me, we're normal people responding to an abnormal situation. This is a great forum for both patients and caregivers. Lots of good resources here that I wish I had in '99.

Steve

Hi @plexiclone, welcome to Connect. So glad you found the PICS forum and are willing to share your experiences. Such as apt phrase that you use: "we're normal people responding to an abnormal situation". Do I understand correctly that your ICU was almost 20 years ago? It sounds like you remember well, yet and still.

Yes, October of 1999. I remember a lot of it. When I go to the same ICU with patients my heart rate goes into the 90's. There is a lot of things in our daily lives that never go back to normal. Accepting that and moving on to your new place in life can be difficult after you get out of the ICU. Most of us are terrified of being that sick again and we will do anything to not wind up in the ICU ever again. It can be doubly frustrating for your spouse because you can't do things at the same speed you used to for at least a few months. It's like being a child again as you re-learn things and work on your memory. Spouses and family members get as frustrated as you do when you aren't up to speed.

You are correct, we remember it like it was yesterday. AND again you are correct, it takes months for a return to a "normal" state in health after a visit to the ICU.

Can I get added to the group. Going through this now with my dad and want to share as much info as possible w both my parents

Welcome to the group, Melissa. I am happy to meet you. Can you share some information about what your dad is going through? What kind help can I help you with?

To echo @rosemarya Welcome to the group @melissa3243. All you have to do to be included is start a conversation just as you have done! Also just make sure to click "Follow" on this Group so you get the latest updates. If you would like to share your story please feel free to do so. There have been many people who have joined this conversation and we can frequently connect you with others who may share similar experiences. It helps to know that whatever you are going through, you're not alone!

Welcome to this group. Having a sick dad is not fun. Hope you can draw what you need from any and all of us.

We have been here at Mayo for two weeks! Six nights in the ICU! Now on on floor six Domitello (hope I spelled that right). We almost lost my dad last Wednesday when our local hospital failed to tell us for 24 hours after they knew that he was septic and had MRSA in his joints. We fought to have him moved knowing that they could not handle his situation. Dad is non weight bearing on both legs so now that the infection is under control we are dealing with bed sores and the fact he more than likely won't walk for a year. Any advice would be great. They want him transferred to acute level 1 care and we really don't have a clue. They put in a pic line and he will be on antibiotics for at least six weeks 🙁 ICU trama is real for us and him. We have been living in an Airbnb for two weeks (my mom and I). Just looking for supportband advice!

Melissa, You and your mother are to be commended for your determination in getting your dad to top level care. He is fortunate to have you at his side, and you and your mom are fortunate to have each other. That is a major blessing for you to be thankful for.
When I was transferred to ICU in an emergency situation, the medicl care team was focused on one thing only - to keep me alive. I was not even aware of all that was going on. My husband and sons, however, were living in each moment faced with strange medical equipment, medical terminology, and very real possibility of the dreaded outcome. It was hour-by-hour, day-by-day for them and it sounds to me like that is what you are going through now.
Now that he is moving out of ICU, talk to the doctor and the nurses. We found that by talking to my care team, and asking questions, that we were able to understand the whats and the whys of what was happening.
I'll be in touch later.