Coming in from the cold....intensive care induced anxiety state on return of consciousness
Keywords:
INTENSIVE CARE, UNCONSCIOUS, ANXIETY, PARANOIA, COMMUNICATIONAbstract
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.Downloads
Published
2007-11-13
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Section
Letters to the Editor
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