Introduction: Approximately 60% of ICU patients experience Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS), which affects not only patients but also their families. The ICU diary aims to bridge memory gaps and correct distortions experienced during ICU stays, supporting both recovery and psychological well-being after discharge. In recent years, the involvement of occupational therapists in intensive care has been increasingly recognized as a crucial strategy for PICS prevention.
Objectives: At our institution, the ICU diary is used to document early mobilization efforts and acute-phase occupational therapy sessions. This study seeks to explore how the ICU diary influences the psychological well-being of patients, their families, and healthcare staff.
Methods: The ICU diary is systematically created, and comments from families and nurses are collected. Text mining techniques are applied to analyze the data, enabling visualization of emotional expressions and recurring themes.
Practice Implications: The analysis of the ICU diary is expected to identify key factors that contribute to anxiety reduction and psychological stability in patients and their families. Additionally, sharing insights gained from the ICU diary among healthcare staff may enhance teamwork, improve care consistency, and optimize operational efficiency.
Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: This project demonstrates the potential of the ICU diary to improve psychological support and elevate care quality in addressing PICS. Furthermore, it emphasizes the expanding role of occupational therapy in intensive care settings. By highlighting the profession's impact in this field, the study offers new opportunities for re-evaluating and advancing the contributions of occupational therapy in critical care environments.