After leaving the hospital

Once you’re ready to be discharged, an assessment may be done to determine if you'll face challenges at home, including psychological or physical difficulties and any necessary equipment or care.

Your medical team will help establish your rehabilitation goals and ensure the appropriate referrals and care plans are arranged before your discharge.

Upon leaving, you may receive:

• A discharge summary from the ICU summarizing your stay.
• Contact information for your rehabilitation coordinator.
• If needed, a copy of your rehabilitation plan.

Arriving home

Returning home without the constant support you had in the hospital can be challenging for both you and your family. Feeling down or frustrated is normal. Setting small, manageable goals can help you see progress.

After a severe illness, fatigue is common. You may need months to regain full strength, so take things slowly.

Continue the exercises given by your physiotherapist but don't overexert yourself. Rest when necessary and gradually increase activity levels.

After surgery, always follow your doctor's advice and listen to your body. If you feel tired or experience pain, stop and rest.

Monitoring your recovery

A follow-up appointment may be scheduled 2-3 months after leaving the ICU to discuss any ongoing issues or challenges.

If your recovery is slower than expected, further referrals to rehabilitation services can be made.

Where to seek support

Your GP will play a key role in your care once you're home. They can refer you to additional services, such as community physiotherapy, if needed.

If you need further assistance, you can also contact the ICU where you were treated for guidance.

Socializing and activities

After a serious illness, you may have less interest in social activities. Start small, seeing one or two friends at a time.

Your concentration and memory may be affected during recovery, but these will likely improve as your health gets better.

Feelings of depression or anxiety are common, so it's important to talk to someone close to you for support.

Family and relationships

Critical illness can change both you and your relationships. Your family may not understand why you feel different or aren't interested in things you once enjoyed.

Your loved ones may have been worried about losing you, and may now try to do too much for you. It’s important to express how you feel calmly and openly.

Sharing memories of your hospital stay can help clarify any confusion you may feel about that time.

Resuming daily life

It’s natural to worry about returning to daily activities after a critical illness. Talk to your family and make necessary adjustments at home to ease the transition.

If you work, you may not be ready to return full-time immediately. Consider visiting your workplace to discuss a gradual return with your employer.

If you have young children, it's important to prioritize rest and ask for help from family and friends when needed.

Sex and intimacy after illness

Concerns about resuming sexual activity after illness are normal. Both you and your partner may have questions about when it’s safe and comfortable to engage in intimacy.

Common concerns include:

• Is it safe given my scars?
• Will medical devices like a catheter get in the way?
• Will I be in pain or discomfort?
• Will I have enough energy?
• What if my partner isn’t ready?
• What if I’m unable to finish?

If you're managing your physical exercises well, you might also be ready for sexual activity. Communication with your partner is key.

Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor if you’re facing any medical issues that affect your intimacy, such as impotence.