Main aims of the Clinic

The main aims of our clinic for patients and relatives include:

Explanation of patient's stay in ICU
We give a brief summary of significant events, which occurred in ICU, with explanations and information. Allowing plenty of time for questions. Many patients do not remember their ICU stay, and this lack of recall can lead to misconceptions, frustration and having unrealistic expectations of themselves during their recovery. It is therefore, preferable for patients to be aware of how ill they have been and then they can understand why it is taking some time to recover.

Rehabilitation information and support
We discuss with patients and relatives their individualised recovery from critical illness. This includes: expectations, realistic goals, change in family dynamics and coming to terms with life style changes.

Identifying physical, psychological or social problems
Some of our patients have problems either as a result of their critical illness or because of other underlying conditions. The follow-up team will refer patients to various specialties, if appropriate.

Promoting a quality service
By highlighting areas which require change in nursing and medical practice, we can improve the quality of patient and relatives care. Feedback from patients and relatives about their ICU experience is invaluable. It has initiated various audits and changes in clinical practice, for the benefit of patients and relatives in the future.