Exploring Psychological Experiences of Recovering from Critical Care

This thesis portfolio comprises three parts:Part One: Systematic Literature ReviewThis systematic literature review (SLR) and thematic synthesis explored attitudes of patients and caregivers towards peer support groups resulting from adult critical care. Following a systematic search, eight studies met the inclusion criteria. After quality appraisal using National Institute for Heath and Care Excellence Qualitative Quality Appraisal checklist (2012), three studies were removed due to lack of robust methodology. A thematic synthesis was completed, to develop and re-interpret themes that captured the attitudes and experiences of patients and carers during the groups. Four main themes emerged: (1) individual Benefits, (2) belonging, (3) comparisons, and (4) structures and factors of the group. Each theme was comprised of subthemes. Potential areas for future research and clinical implications are discussed. Part Two: Empirical PaperThe empirical paper explored how discharged critical care patients experienced their psychological recoveries. An exploratory approach used Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), and semi-structured interviews. Seven participants took part in these interviews, and three themes were generated from the dataset, (1) getting through, (2) the recovery journey and (3) external UK influences. Critical care emerged as a pivotal event in their lives, one that necessitated ongoing support to manage. Support which could be completed by psychological professionals who are aware of the key issues that patients are facing. Potential clinical applications of these findings and future areas of research are discussed.Part Three: AppendicesThe appendices provide supplementary material for both the SLR and the empirical study, including exploration of the researcher’s positioning and assumptions through epistemological and reflective statements.