Overview

Nearly half of all intensive care patients describe symptoms of anxiety and depression after a stay in the ICU, and one in five has genuine post-traumatic stress disorder.

As a result, improving patient experience has become a priority in the ICU, and particular attention is being paid to the need to recreate a familiar environment.

Animal-mediated interventions have been developed for a number of patients over many years. These strategies are widely used with elderly patients, and patients with cognitive or psychiatric disorders, for whom the literature shows benefits on anxiety, mood or objective signs of stress.

In the vast majority of experiments carried out to date, the animals (mainly dogs) were prepared and educated for contact with patients, and their handlers trained in this activity, rather like guide dogs. Visiting a care facility with a patient's own pet is rarely described. It may run up against obstacles related to the animal's behavior or infectious risks, but it is nevertheless authorized in many establishments.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

• Conscious adult patients with a pet (dog/cat).
• Patients with no or no longer hemodynamic or respiratory failure, or undergoing rehabilitation, after resolution of the acute phase or at the end of life.
• Patients affiliated to or entitled under a social security scheme.
• Patient who has given written informed consent to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Non-stabilized acute situation (as assessed by the resuscitator).
• Mechanical or amine ventilation or extrarenal purification.
• Tracheostomy.
• Immunosuppression.
• Carriage of multi-resistant bacteria.
• Behavioral or consciousness disorders.
• Pregnancy.
• Skin wounds, extensive burns exceeding 15% of body surface area, external fixator.
• Guardianship or trusteeship.
• Workload incompatible with the visit
• Patient unable to speak French.