Implementation of a Patient and Family-Centered Intensive Care Unit Peer Support Program at a Veterans Affairs Hospital.
Leanne M Boehm, Kelly Drumright, Ralph Gervasio and 2 others
PMID 32402316WHAT IT FOUND
ICU survivors and families attending a VA peer support group reported feeling emotionally supported and would recommend it, though fewer felt more in control.
The project showed feasibility but did not test whether it reduced post-intensive care syndrome.
Key findings
01From October 2016 through September 2019, total support group attendance was 268, with a median of 3 participants per week.
02Among 106 evaluation survey respondents (40% response rate), 94% very much reported feeling emotionally supported and learning from other ICU patients and families, 85% would strongly recommend the group, but 47% very much felt more in control.
03The project did not evaluate whether symptoms of PICS and PICS-F were reduced.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for RNs
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What it does not show
This was a single-center implementation at a Veterans Affairs hospital, so other settings may need different processes, procedures, and approvals. The project did not evaluate whether participation reduced symptoms of PICS or PICS-F. Survey responses were voluntary and anonymous, and not every attendee completed the evaluation. The same multidisciplinary team facilitated the program over the reported period, and the effect of team turnover on sustainment is unclear.
The easy way to misread this
Do not read the high survey support as evidence that peer support improves physical, mental, or cognitive outcomes. The project did not evaluate whether PICS or PICS-F symptoms were reduced.