[A retrospective study of the impressions and psychic reactions experienced by patients in a traumatological intensive care unit (author's transl)].

30 persons who had been treated for an average of 22 days on a traumatological intensive care unit were asked to comment on their impressions and experiences. 80% of the patients had been in need of artificial respiration; but this had not unduly distressed them and they remembered it only vaguely. The major worry in 30% of the cases was awareness of their condition and the fear of permanent physical and mental disablement. 25% had greatly suffered from thirst. There was no mention that finding themselves in an intensive care ward, being dependent on a respirator or monitoring equipment or being disorientated had caused distress. None of them had seriously contemplated the possibility of his own death. The frequent visits by relatives were regarded as great comfort and help towards achieving mental equilibrium. All these critically ill persons were highly impressed by the constant and dedicated medical and nursing care they had received.