Managing problems related to ICU delirium is different for everyone. It may involve exercises to improve thinking and memory, therapy to improve sleep, or intense therapy that is more like rehabilitation for a brain injury.
Recovery can take weeks or months to fully recover. Some people need to manage these problems the rest of their lives. This can lead to needing full-time care, having to live in a care facility, or even dying sooner.
Here are some tips to help yourself or a loved one recover after ICU delirium.
Know important care information
When you leave the hospital, have all the information you need to continue with care and recovery. This includes knowing:
-
follow-up appointments
- medicines to take
- the rehabilitation plan
- information about any problems related to the ICU stay, such as ICU delirium or muscle weakness
Get support and give support
If you experienced ICU delirium, talk to a loved one or friend about how you feel. Tell them you are finding it hard to get back to your regular life.
If you are supporting a loved one, tell them you are there for support and to listen if they want to talk.
Connect with the healthcare team
Book an appointment to see a healthcare provider to understand what is causing your or your loved one's symptoms and how to manage them. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
Talk to your family doctor and other healthcare providers about the ICU stay. They may be able to suggest health services in your community for former ICU patients and their families.
Talk to the ICU team
If were in the ICU, and you have questions about your stay or can't remember what happened, contact the ICU team at your hospital. The ICU team can give you information you may not remember.
You may also arrange to visit the ICU.
Other ICU patients say going back to the ICU helped them better understand what happened during their stay.
Be active
Some people say being active helped them get stronger and sleep better as they recover from ICU delirium. Try to be active or encourage your loved one to be active.
Learn more
Look for
helpful resources about ICU delirium and ICU recovery.
Look for local peer support groups, or try an online ICU support group, such as the
ICUsteps online community.
