Physical Recovery After Critical Illness: a Qualitative exploration

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    A phenomenological exploration of the perceptions and experiences of physical recovery following discharge home after critical illness.

  • IRAS ID

    312649

  • Contact name

    Sian Goddard

  • Contact email

    sian.goddard@plymouth.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    University of Plymouth

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    1 years, 4 months, 8 days

  • Research summary

    The aim of the PRACTIQ study is to improve understanding of people’s perceptions and experiences of physical recovery after they have been discharged home following critical illness.
    The study aims to explore the perceptions of physical recovery for this group and explore the barriers and influences upon physical recovery following discharge home after critical illness.
    Much research has been carried out into exercise programmes and interventions after discharge home; and the NICE Guidelines for Rehabilitation following Critical Illness (CG83) (publsihed in 2009) have led to improved provision of interventions, but the consideration of survivor’s opinions on their physical recovery is still lacking. In the qualitative research field, studies have investigated quality of life following discharge home and opinions of exercise programmes or interventions, but none have explored perceptions or experiences of physical recovery.
    The study will collect data by interviewing critical illness survivors on two separate occasions after discharge home. Participants will be recruited from two separate NHS trusts in the South West of England; one rural location and one urban location.
    Eligible participants will be over 18, have been mechanically ventilated with a critical care stay of more than 72 hours, have had a change in physical function following their critical illness, and be able to participate in a verbal interview in the English language.
    The aim is to schedule the initial interview for 4-12 weeks after discharge, with the second being 8 to 12 weeks after the first. Interviews will be recorded using an audio-recording device. A notebook will be provided for participants to document any events, progress, issues or feelings associated with physical recovery after discharged home from hospital.
    The information gained from the study will help in the development of rehabilitation tools, programmes and guidelines for those recovering from critical illness in the future.

  • REC name

    South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    22/SW/0164

  • Date of REC Opinion

    24 Nov 2022

  • REC opinion

    Favourable Opinion