Patient and Caregiver Psychological Functioning Following Neuro-ICU Admission: A Prospective Investigation

A Prospective Study to Investigate Relationships Between Patient and Family Caregiver Distress Following Neuroscience ICU Admission

The current study has the following objectives:

1. To determine predictors of time 2 and 3 (3 and 6 months post-ICU admission) depression, PTSD, satisfaction with life and quality of life in both patients and caregivers, after controlling for injury severity and impairment.
2. To determine factors associated with patient and caregiver satisfaction with medical care at time 2 and time 3.

The investigators would thus be able to identify the best time point for intervention delivery, intervention targets, and risk factors for chronic psychological distress.

Inclusion criteria for patients:

1. 18 years of age and older
2. English fluency and literacy
3. Admitted to the Neuro-ICU

Inclusion criteria for family caregivers:

1. 18 years of age and older
2. English fluency and literacy
3. Family member of patient who is identified by patient as the primary caregiver

Exclusion criteria:

1. Patients who cannot complete questionnaires due to their medical condition, and are anticipated to not be able to complete questionnaires at any of the future time points, due to permanent impairment.
2. Patients who lack decision-making capacity as determined by their clinical team
3. Patients who are comfort measures only (CMO)