ICU Psychosis: Tips for the Family

ICU psychosis is a medical condition in which patients of an ICU unit have issues with anxiety, paranoia, hearing or seeing things that are not there, become disoriented, agitated or even violent. In other words the patient exhibits temporary psychosis. ICU psychosis may be caused by a large variety of reasons. The patient may become exhausted or sleep deprived a disruption in routine or daily schedule, many interruptions of nurses/doctors, surroundings that are not familiar, being in a small room or having little contact with people. Other causes of ICU psychosis include but are not limited to too many noises, inability to control surroundings, pain or discomfort, hunger or thirst, improper care, improper hygiene, inability to communicate needs, medical problems, fear and or depressions. These are just some of the many reasons a person may develop ICU psychosis.

As you can only imagine, ICU psychosis may be extremely difficult on family members. Family members are already having to deal with their loved one being ill and on top of the illness, dealing with ICU psychosis can be hard the family. It is important for family members to stay on top of their loved ones medical care and be in constant contact with the doctor and other medical professionals in charge of their loved ones care. One of the first things that should be done when treating ICU psychosis is evaluating the medications currently being given to the patient. The family can help the doctor when discussing when symptoms were first exhibited.

Family members can also help patients with ICU psychosis by letting them rest more often. Though you always want to be with family when they are ill, one of the major causes of ICU psychosis is sleep deprivation. If there are constant interruptions by many different family members the patient may not be getting an optimal amount of sleep. Coincide with all family members to set special visiting hours and allow the patient more time to rest.

Family members should remain calm when visiting patients with ICU psychosis. If the family members show signs of agitation and distress, the patient may get worse. Keep your voice calm and speak as you normally would prior to the hospitalization.

Bring familiar objects to the patient such as a pictures or a special object they remember or relate too. Place the object where the patient can see it.

There is no need to speak in a loud voice unless the patient had hearing difficulties prior to the hospitalization. A normal voice is more familiar and calming.

Provide hope and comforting words to your family member. Assure them that the hospitalization is short term and before long they will be home again.

Dry erase boards are wonderful for patients with ICU psychosis that are on a ventilator. This allows them a means of communication with family members as well as hospital staff.

Family members can help patients with communication signals such as thumbs up or blinking. Make sure the signals are easy to remember and simple for the patients to perform.

The power of touch is a great comfort to loved ones experiencing ICU psychosis. Holding your family members hand or rubbing lotion on their hands, back and feet are just a simple gesture that may mean the world to them.

Reading the newspaper, bible, or favorite books may also be a comfort to your loved one. Hearing a familiar voice reading in a calm manor may be comforting. It is important to help your loved one keep their mind active.

You may also want to ask the staff of the ICU if they allow music to be played in the patient's room. If so, bring your loved ones favorite music and play it for them. Not too loud, just so it is soothing and familiar.

ICU psychosis may last only 24-hours or as long as two weeks. Be sure to do everything you can as a concerned family member to help your loved one be comforted during this time. Stay calm and leave the room if your emotions get the best of you. Remember, this is a treatable condition and your loved one needs you.