Table 1 Vignettes and questions to perform problem analysis

#

Vignette elements

Reference

1

Reduction of non-essential monitoring and nursing care in ICU prior to discharge.

[24, 39, 41]

Informal preparation of the patient prior to discharge; tailored discussion of decreased monitoring, less staff, reassurance of worries.

[26, 54]

Consultative ICU nurse, currently providing one or more consecutive evaluations of the former ICU patient, and signed off when deemed stable.

[55, 63, 64]

2

New folder with information about the differences between ICU and wards, topics covered by the nurses in semi-structured conversation (checklist). Reassurance of worries.

[26, 41, 42]

Relatives visiting the general ward prior to discharge.

[41]

A personalized lay summary of the patients’ ICU stay.

[25, 43, 44]

3

Distribute the booklet ´Your recovery after ICU´ to the patient or their relatives.

[54, 65]

Acquaintance visit of the patient to the ward prior to discharge.

[41]

4

Use of diaries; this means an active involvement of patients and relatives in identifying and meeting their own needs, and offering opportunities for reflection.

[43, 54]

Adapted handover with emotional and psychosocial situation described, supported in electronic patient file.

[45]

5

Ward nurse visiting the patient in the ICU.

#

Questions

1

What was important to you prior to discharge from the ICU?

2

What was important during discharge and the introduction to the new ward?

3

How did you feel in the first days after discharge from the ICU?

4

How did you feel regarding your safety in the ICU and the general ward?

5

Did you miss specific issues in the care after you left the ICU, and if so, please explain these?

6

What would you like to improve, assuming an ideal situation?