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To explore the long-term communicative experiences of tracheostomised ICU survivors 12 months after discharge; to identify facilitators and barriers to communication with caregivers, family members, and healthcare professionals; to describe coping and communicative adaptation strategies; and to assess perceived quality of life and self-esteem.
This is a qualitative-dominant mixed methods study based on a multicentre Italian sample.
Twenty-three adult patients from several Italian hospitals were interviewed using a semi-structured guide 12 months after discharge. Qualitative data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Quantitative data were collected through the EQ-5D-5L, EQ-VAS, and Visual Analogue Self-Esteem Scale (VASES), and analysed using descriptive statistics to explore patterns of QoL and self-esteem.
Four major themes emerged: (1) A body that speaks no more, reflecting the initial experience of voicelessness and emotional isolation; (2) Finding new ways to be heard, describing adaptive communicative strategies and the supportive role of family; (3) When the voice returns, so does life, highlighting the transformative meaning of regaining one's voice; and (4) Living differently, capturing long-term psychological and social adjustments. Quantitative data confirmed reduced self-esteem and QoL (mean EQ-5D index = 0.61; EQ-VAS = 58.4; VASES = 54.2). Integrated findings revealed that communication impairment remained a determinant of reduced well-being 1 year after discharge.
This is the first Italian study to investigate in depth the communicative trajectories of tracheostomised ICU survivors. Findings highlight the crucial role of voice recovery in emotional adjustment and quality of life, supporting the need for structured, multidisciplinary post-ICU follow-up focused on communication and psychosocial rehabilitation.
These findings support health professionals in developing individualised post-ICU interventions to restore communication, improve QoL, and enhance social reintegration.
COREQ checklist was followed.
No patient or public contribution.
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