ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Patients admitted to pediatric intensive care units (PICU) often experience sensory deprivation and develop maladaptive sensory disorders. Simultaneously, families often endorse feelings of helplessness and fear while their child is critically ill. This study aims to expand ICU family engagement in a unique, patient-centered manner. METHODS: This is a single-centered prospective cohort study performed at a quaternary PICU. Inclusion criteria included age >12 months, were mechanically ventilated, and with a Glasgow Coma Scale < 10. Exclusion criteria included those with baseline cognitive or developmental delay, palliative concerns, or to clinically unstable. The team consisted of occupational therapists and speechlanguage pathologists. Once enrolled, the team created an individualized sensory plan, including any existing sensory needs or aversions. The therapist oriented the family to the program and provided stimulation to all 5 senses. The family was provided an informational handout and a sensory kit to encourage stimulation when the therapist was not present. Following ICU discharge, the families were surveyed regarding their experience. RESULTS: From June 2019 through July 2021, 15 patients were enrolled and 12 completed surveys. Age ranged from 15 months to 17 years with a mean age of 7.6 years. The most common diagnosis was traumatic brain injury (n=5, 33%). All surveyed families provided stimulation at least 3 times following ICU transfer. 92% (n=11) participants provided stimulation more than once a day. Reported difficulty level was labeled as easy (n=9, 69%) or medium (n=3, 23%). CONCLUSIONS: Sensory stimulation can augment recovery and prevent new sensory integration disorders. These targeted plans and environmental modifications have been shown to aid in delirium prevention, family engagement, and non-pharmacologic soothing. Overall, we found that families and caregivers enjoyed the guided engagement and provided very positive feedback. There were several limitations to this project. Primarily, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the average daily PICU census was very low, inhibiting enrollment ability. Additionally, there was difficulty obtaining consults for the therapist team, thus delaying enrollment. We hope to continue to enroll patients and expand our program to other hospital units.