Preliminary validation of the ICUM tool: a tool for assessing memory of the intensive care experience

Objective: The absence of a tool for assessing memory after being treated on the intensive care unit (ICU) has inhibited research. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop and validate a tool known as the ICU Memory Tool (ICUMT) for assessing memory forintensive care during the recovery period. Validity was assessed through internal consistency, construct validity and test-retest reliability. Design: Prospective cohort study. Setting: Single intensive care unit in a district general hospital. Subjects and measurements: Forty-five patients recovering from critical illness. The ICUMT consists of 14 items administered by clinical interview. Main results: The ICU Memory Tool was internally consistent (alpha coefficient 0.86). Some evidence for the tool's construct validity was found as a predicted relationship between infection and memory loss was confirmed (p < 0.04). Good test-retest reliability was found over a 4-month period for factual memories (r = 0.84, p < 0.0001) and delusion memories (r = 0.91, p < 0.0001). However, memories of feelings were not as consistent over the 4-month period (r = 0.69, p > 0.0002). Conclusions: The initial reliability testing and validity check of the new ICUMT was favourable.