Introduction: Disorders of consciousness, such as coma and minimally conscious states, are standard in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke, leading to high morbidity and cognitive impairment. Integrated Sensory Stimulation (ISS) is a promising non-pharmacological intervention to enhance recovery. Aim: This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of ISS in improving consciousness and cognitive function in ICU patients. Methods: A systematic search of six databases (2014–2024) identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies using multimodal sensory interventions. Consciousness and cognitive outcomes were analyzed, and the risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane and ROBINS-I tools. Results: Thirteen studies (500 patients) showed ISS significantly improved Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores (6.05 ± 0.75 to 11.85 ± 1.66, P<0.001) and Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) scores (+9.65, P<0.05). Family-administered ISS had the most potent effects on consciousness and cognitive function. Conclusion: ISS effectively enhances consciousness and cognitive recovery in ICU patients. Standardized protocols and long-term studies are needed.

Introduction: Disorders of consciousness, such as coma and minimally conscious states, are standard in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke, leading to high morbidity and cognitive impairment. Integrated Sensory Stimulation (ISS) is a promising non-pharmacological intervention to enhance recovery. Aim: This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of ISS in improving consciousness and cognitive function in ICU patients. Methods: A systematic search of six databases (2014–2024) identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies using multimodal sensory interventions. Consciousness and cognitive outcomes were analyzed, and the risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane and ROBINS-I tools. Results: Thirteen studies (500 patients) showed ISS significantly improved Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores (6.05 ± 0.75 to 11.85 ± 1.66, P<0.001) and Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) scores (+9.65, P<0.05). Family-administered ISS had the most potent effects on consciousness and cognitive function. Conclusion: ISS effectively enhances consciousness and cognitive recovery in ICU patients. Standardized protocols and long-term studies are needed.