Conclusion
This paper has outlined a critical review and synthesis of the qualitative research literature that explores first hand
experiences of critical illness. The aim was to describe the common themes associated with the experience of critical
illness and consider how these inform patients understanding.
Some patients clearly have significant recall of their critical illness and stay in the ICU. Common themes amongst these recalled experiences have been distilled in this review.However, analysis of the research has highlighted, through more implicit themes, the way patients understand their experiences through its personal meaning for them. This signposts a way and frames a research focus to develop this area of knowledge about critical illness in the future.
Exploring the whole illness recovery trajectory, including those who have had a significant length of stay in ICU, and allowing time for recovery and reflection before interviewing patients are argued here as the important next steps in this area of research.