Cognitive outcomes after critical illness

---

Amr EL-Said

Armed Forces College of Medicine, Egypt

: J Nurs Patient Care

Abstract

---

With the aging population, the number of patients admitted to ICUs continues to grow, as does the number of ICU survivors. These survivors frequently have substantial morbidity after hospital discharge, including physical, cognitive, and mental health impairments, collectively known as postintensive care syndrome. These morbidities frequently cooccur and may be associated with significant disability and impaired quality of life. The exact pathophysiological mechanisms linking delirium, cognitive dysfunction and neuropsychological symptoms following critical illness are not fully elucidated. To address this issue, there is a growing need to develop interventions that can improve patient outcomes. There is limited evidence as yet for specific preventative strategies, but early management and rehabilitation strategies following intensive care discharge are now emerging. Our knowledge of this problem remains incomplete. Collaborative research is indispensable to improve our understanding of this disabling sequel and to identify ways to prevent it. This article aims to summarise the issues and appraise current options for management, including both neuroprotective and neurorehabilitative strategies in intensive care.

Biography

---

Amr EL-Said graduated from school of medicine, Ain Shams University, December 1984. He received master degree in anesthesia & intensive care November 1988, medical doctorate degree in anesthesia & intensive care April 1995. He is professor of anesthesia & intensive care - Ain Shams University from August 2005. He is the chairman of intensive care department at the Armed Forces College of Medicine, Egypt. He is medical director of ICU, EL-Nozha International Hospital, Egypt. He is medical director of ICU (C), Ain Shams University Specialized Hospital, Egypt. He worked as anesthesia consultant, Armed Forces Hospital, Khamis Mushayt, Saudi Arabia.