The extent and application of patient diaries in Danish ICUs in 2006.

The aim of this study was to describe the extent and application of patient diaries in Danish intensive care units (ICUs) in 2006. Following critical illness, many patients experience disturbed and disconnected memories. Patient diaries in the ICU have been introduced locally by nurses in the Scandinavian countries and the UK as a means to improve cognitive recovery and prevent psychological trauma following critical illness.