Factors associated with post-intensive care unit adverse events: A clinical validation study

Background: Many patients discharged from intensive care units (ICU) have complex care needs, placing them at risk of an adverse event in a ward environment. Currently, there is limited understanding of factors associated with these events in the post‐intensive care population. A recent study explored intensive care liaison nurses' opinions on factors associated with these events; 25 factors were identified, highlighting the multifaceted nature of post‐intensive care adverse events.

Aim: This study aimed to clinically validate 25 factors intensive care liaison nurses believe are associated with post‐intensive care adverse events, to determine the factors' relevance and importance to clinical practice.

Design: Prospective, clinical validation study.

Method: Data were prospectively collected on a convenience sample of 52 patients at 4 tertiary referral hospitals in an Australian capital city. All patients had experienced an adverse event after intensive care discharge.

Results: Each of the 25 factors contributed to adverse events in at least 6 patients. The factors associated with the most adverse events were those that related to the patient such as illness severity and co‐morbidities.

Conclusion: Clinical care and research should focus on modifiable factors in care processes to reduce the risk of future adverse events in post‐intensive care patients.

Relevance to clinical practice: Many patients are at risk of post‐ICU adverse events due to the contribution of non‐modifiable factors. However, by focusing on modifiable factors in care processes, the risk of post‐ICU adverse events may be reduced.