ICU Sleep Study - Version 1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Post-ICU Sleep Disturbance: Exploring Implicit Memory Phenomena after Sedation and Mechanical Ventilation
IRAS ID
357332
Contact name
Sally Horsley
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN86243044
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
ISRCTN, 47963
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 1 days
Research summary
This study explores post-intensive care unit (ICU) sleep disturbance in adult survivors of critical illness who experienced sedation and mechanical ventilation.
Sleep disturbance is common after ICU and can significantly affect recovery and quality of life. Clinical observations from post-ICU follow-up services suggest that many patients experience sleep difficulties. Some appear consistent with trauma-based models, but others are described as confusing, unusual, or difficult to articulate, and are not necessarily experienced as frightening. Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) contributors highlighted the emotional impact of persistent sleep disturbance and the importance of better understanding its origins.
The study examines whether some forms of post-ICU sleep disturbance may reflect memory phenomena formed during sedation and mechanical ventilation. It focuses on experiential aspects of sleep disturbance, including emotions, bodily sensations, and experiences occurring around sleep onset, nocturnal arousal, and waking. It considers whether these may be consistent with implicit or non-narrative memory processes associated with altered states of consciousness during critical illness.
Using a qualitative-dominant, cross-sectional, observational design informed by a critical realist framework, the study explores the lived experience of post-ICU sleep disturbance. Participants will be adult ICU survivors (aged ≥18 years) who were admitted for at least 72 hours, mechanically ventilated with sedation, extubated in ICU, discharged home for at least four weeks, and able to provide informed consent.
Potential participants (n=30–40) will complete a postal sleep questionnaire (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index). A purposive subsample (n=8–10) will then take part in a one-off semi-structured interview and complete two additional questionnaires (ICU Memory Tool and International Trauma Questionnaire).
The study aims to improve understanding of post-ICU sleep disturbance and inform future assessment and support for ICU survivors. It will be conducted within County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust over approximately six months.REC name
North West - Greater Manchester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/NW/0166
Date of REC Opinion
18 Jun 2026
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion