Coming in from the cold....intensive care induced anxiety state on return of consciousness

Authors

  • John Olutola Olatosi DEPARTMENT OF ANAESTHESIA,LAGOS UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL,LAGOS, NIGERIA
  • Ibironke Desalu DEPARTMENT OF ANAESTHESIA,LAGOS UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL,LAGOS, NIGERIA

Keywords:

INTENSIVE CARE, UNCONSCIOUS, ANXIETY, PARANOIA, COMMUNICATION

Abstract

The emergence from anaesthesia is well known to be a frightening period for patients, as alteration in memory and perception often leads to confusion and resistance. Anaesthetists constantly talk patients through this period, reminding them that they have just had an operation, encouraging them to tolerate whatever airway device may be in place and thus preventing both physical and psychological trauma. In the ICU setting, return of consciousness may not be so well defined, and patients are often left in a vulnerable, confused dream-like state.

Author Biography

John Olutola Olatosi, DEPARTMENT OF ANAESTHESIA,LAGOS UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL,LAGOS, NIGERIA

CONSULTANT ANAESTHETIST(FWACS),DEPARTMENT OF ANAESTHESIA,LAGOS UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL,IDI-ARABA,LAGOS

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Published

2007-11-13

Issue

Section

Letters to the Editor