Dr C Kydonaki, Dr P Ramsay
No more applications being accepted
Self-Funded PhD Students Only
About the Project
Family members (FM) of adult critically ill patients act as caregivers and surrogate decision-makers during and after the intensive care (ICU) course. Exposure to a critical care experience increases the risk of mental health symptoms (anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)), with an estimated prevalence between 30-60% (2,3) . These symptoms have been described as post-intensive care syndrome–family (PICS-F) (1) with studies estimating its burden up to a year post-ICU discharge. Within the person-centred care model, there is a recognised need to explore the magnitude of PICS-F and identify the support needs of FM in order to recognise those at risk and to direct specific interventions to improve their mental wellbeing. As part of our research programme of FM and patient wellbeing following critical illness experience, this project will increase our understanding of the severity of FM care burden and the lack of support provided within the currently fragmented NHS service.
Aims
Objective 1.To explore the nature and extent of PICS-F in FM of critically ill patients post-ICU discharge, including their coping mechanisms, support needs and preferences for support.
Objective 2. To identify and develop supportive mechanisms within the existing NHS systems and resources to improve FM experience and mental wellbeing.
Methods
Prospective longitudinal cohort study with a mixed methods design. The PhD student will have the opportunity to develop skills in mixed methods design and acquire expertise in innovative intervention design methodology.
References
1.Davidson JE, Jones C, Bienvenu OJ, 2012. Family response to critical illness: Post-intensive care syndrome – family. Critical Care Medicine, 40: 618 – 624.
2.Azoulay E, Pochard F, Kentish-Barnes N, et al: Risk of post-traumatic stress symptoms in family members of intensive care unit patients. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2005; 171: 987–994
3.Fumis RR, Ranzani OT, Faria PP, Schettino G: Anxiety, depression, and satisfaction in close relatives of patients in an open visiting policy intensive care unit in Brazil. J Crit Care 2015; 30: 440.e1–440.e6
Academic qualifications
A first degree (at least a 2.1) ideally in Nursing or AHP with a good fundamental knowledge of critical care or acute care.
English language requirement
IELTS score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components). Other, equivalent qualifications will be accepted. Full details of the University’s policy are available online.
Essential attributes:
• Experience of fundamental critical or acute care delivery.
• Competent in applying a range of advanced practice skills.
• Knowledge of pathological critical care sequelae.
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Strong motivation, with evidence of independent research skills relevant to the project
• Good time management
Desirable attributes:
Advanced practitioner in critical or acute care.
When applying for this position please quote project code SHSC0007
Funding Notes
This is a self funded position
References
. Davidson JE, Jones C, Bienvenu OJ, 2012. Family response to critical illness: Post-intensive care syndrome – family. Critical Care Medicine, 40: 618 – 624.
2. Pochard F, Darmon M, Fassier T, et al. Symptoms of anxiety and depression in family members of intensive care unit patients before discharge or death. A prospective multicenter study. J Crit Care 2005; 20:90–96.
3. Paparrigopoulos T, Melissaki A, Efthymiou A, et al. Short-term psychological impact on family members of intensive care unit patients. J Psychosom Res. 2006;61(5):719–722.
4. Kloos JA, Daly J. Effect of a Family-Maintained Progress Journal on anxiety of families of critically ill patients. Crit Care Nurse. 2008;31(2):96–107.
5. Azoulay E, Pochard F, Kentish-Barnes N, et al: Risk of post-traumatic stress symptoms in family members of intensive care unit patients. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2005; 171: 987–994
6. Jones C, Skirrow P, Griffiths RD, et al: Post- traumatic stress disorder-related symptoms in relatives of patients following intensive care. Intensive Care Med 2004; 30:456 – 460
7. Fumis RR, Deheinzelin D: Family members of critically ill cancer patients: assessing the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Intensive Care Med 2009; 35:899–902
8. Fumis RR, Ranzani OT, Faria PP, Schettino G: Anxiety, depression, and satisfaction in close relatives of patients in an open visiting policy intensive care unit in Brazil. J Crit Care 2015; 30: 440.e1–440.e6