Predictors of Post intensive care syndrome in paediatrics (PICS-p): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis protocol

IntroductionPost-Intensive Care Syndrome in Pediatrics (PICS-p) is being increasingly reported and investigated in children after a critical illness. This manifests as physical, cognitive, and mental problems that affect their quality of life. This systematic review aims to explore the risk factors leading to PICS-p to inform prevention and management strategies. Method and AnalysisThis systematic review and Meta-analysis will be carried out in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) guidelines. The inclusion studies were quantitative cohort, case control, cross section and observational. Studies conducted in the last 2.5 decade (January 1, 2000 to January 1, 2025) involving pediatric population starting 1 month to 18 years of age, discharged from PICU. PubMed,Embase, Scopus and CINAHL databases will be used to search for the relevant studies. Boolean operations and Mesh terms will be used to ensure exhaustive literature coverage. ConclusionThe review will provide an opportunity to know the risk factors non-modifiable (Age, sex, pre-existing health conditions and severity of illness) and modifiable (Delirium, sedation practice, PICU environment, Rehabilitation services and family support) that are associated with PICS-p and the findings can be used to make recommendations for targeted interventions to target interventions. Thus, by contributing toward overcoming this problem, the study is meant to improve the outcome for pediatric patients and families while decreasing future burdens due to long-lasting ailments. The outcomes are expected to shape clinical practices and policymaking in the direction of holistic care and recovery among survivors from a PICU. What is already known on this Topic?Despite growing recognition of post intensive care syndrome in pediatrics, there is no systematic review has been made regarding the factors that predispose to PICS-p in children with the age 1 month to 18 years, highlighting a huge knowledge gap. What this study hopes to add?The results of this systematic review identify risk factors linked to PICS-p and offer important new information for the future development of intervention programs for childrens risk factors modifiable and non-modifiable linked to PICS-p. How this study might affect research, practice or policy?This review is intended to present a body of evidence that will be useful in informing clinical practice and preventive efforts on preventive work for at risk children. The review will address how risk factor will help healthcare providers, researcher, policymakers, and caregivers in the long-term health and well-being of pediatric patients who will be discharged from PICUs.