Post-intensive care syndrome Screening and management in primary care

Background Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) affects as many as 50% of intensive care unit (ICU) survivors, and symptoms can persist for months to years. When psychological symptoms are experienced by patients' loved ones, this is termed PICS-family (PICS-F). Patients with these syndromes represent a frequently underrecognised and suboptimally managed cohort. Objective The aim of this article is to outline the key aspects of screening and primary care management, providing an evidence-based framework for general practitioners (GPs). Discussion PICS screening is not well defined. The breadth of symptoms, along with the absence of a national consensus, renders in-depth assessment a significant undertaking. Community management relies on a coordinated effort from the whole multidisciplinary team, spearheaded by the GP, and focuses on three key areas: 'information and education', 'assessment and therapy' and 'personal support'. Collaboration between key stakeholders is needed to improve outcomes in this hitherto underrecognised patient population.