Preventing Post-traumatic Stress in ICU Survivors: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of ICU Diaries

Creation of an ICU diary: A bound empty journal will be stored at the patient's bedside near the nurse charting area. All family members and ICU staff are invited to write in the ICU diary at any time. Procedure for diary writing will follow previous research (see www.icu-diary.org).

The psychoeducation brochure will describe procedures in the ICU (sedation, ventilation), and the delirium, hallucinations, and trauma that may result; as well as symptoms of PTSD post-ICU. It will provide instructions for follow-up, information, and emergency care. The brochure will instruct participants to contact their follow-up healthcare provider if they have any questions.