How Does Health-Related Quality of Life Change over Time in Cancer Survivors Following an Admission to the Intensive Care Unit? An Integrative Review

Background Cancer survivors account for 15% to 20% of all intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. In general ICU populations, patients are known to experience reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, little is known about HRQoL impacts among cancer survivors following a critical illness in ICU. Objective The aim of this study was to critically synthesize the evidence to further understand the impact of a critical illness and ICU admission in cancer survivors. Methods An integrative review was conducted and reported according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis) guidelines. Three electronic databases were searched (MEDLINE, CINAHL, and EMBASE) using keywords and Boolean logic. Quality appraisal, data extraction, and a narrative synthesis were completed for all included studies by 2 reviewers. Results Eleven publications met inclusion criteria. Health-related quality-of-life domains most frequently reported in cancer survivors after discharge from ICU included the following: physical function limitations, physical symptoms, and anxiety/depression. Conclusions Health-related quality of life decreased immediately after the admission to ICU with a gradual increase in the 3 to 12 months following. Cancer survivors are vulnerable to physical limitations, pain, and social isolation after an admission to ICU. Implications for Practice Cancer survivors who have been affected by a critical illness are at risk of reduced HRQoL after an admission to ICU. This integrative review will help clinicians and researchers to develop patient-centered models of care during the recovery of critical illness, which are currently lacking in service delivery.