PICS

Multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled trial providing mobile health supported physical rehabilitation to 120 patients who have been critically ill with COVID-19 and who complete at least one exercise session.

Survivors of critical illness are at high risk for mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. This single-site, randomized controlled trial at the Medical University of South Carolina will enroll 150 patients to compare outcomes between a behavioral health Collaborative Care Model (BH CoCM) and usual care (attention control). The intervention includes digital tools (Neuroflow), behavioral health coaching, and psychiatric support.

Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) refers to long-term cognitive, physical, and psychological impairments that can arise after intensive care treatment. These symptoms may begin within 24 hours of ICU admission and persist for years. Affected patients and their families (PICS-F) face significant burdens, with up to 94% of relatives impacted. Given its high prevalence and socioeconomic impact, this prospective registry study aims to identify risk factors and long-term consequences of PICS and PICS-F. The study consists of six modules, starting with data collection during ICU stays and continuing with follow-ups at various intervals post-discharge (up to five years). The primary goal is to investigate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, while secondary objectives include identifying risk factors, determining impairment severity, and exploring biological mechanisms. Standardized questionnaires and biological samples (blood) are used for data collection.

Past research on PICS has mainly focused on the predictability and prognosis of PICS occurrence in ICU patients. Still, there is currently insufficient research on the role of PICS in the care setting of patients who have stabilized and are transferred to respiratory care units such as Respiratory Care Centers (RCCs) for weaning attempts. To understand the impact of PICS on the respiratory physiology of patients undergoing weaning from prolonged mechanical ventilation, investigators propose a one-year research plan

Randomized clinical trial that aims to evaluate the impact of the use of a diary in patients and relatives of patients admitted to an ICU in relation to usual practice in terms of health-related quality of life, the post-traumatic stress and anxiety/depression at 2, 6 and 12 months after ICU discharge.