Abstract

Objective: Analysis of the needs of relatives of seriously ill patients treated in ICU.

Method: Review in the MEDLINE, CINAHL and Cochrane databases of published studies in the last 15 years to reach consensus through an expert panel.

Result: Visiting the patient is one of the main needs of the family. There are several types. Various studies have also been published on about its necessity and what type is more appropriate, as well as the 2017 guidelines. The medical staff should adapt visiting hours according to the needs of relatives and staff. Giving information to relatives is also one of the main needs which should not be omitted. Various published studies prove this and strongly recommend various strategies to improve the process of updating by doctors. The meaning of spirituality is diachronic. According to studies that have been carried out, religious belief is a very important need of relatives and health professionals should always intervene in order to cater for it. The stressful experience of patient’s admission to the ICU causes many negative emotions to the relatives and creates the need for psychological support. Numerous studies praise the necessity and interventions for psychological support from health professionals.

Conclusion: Health professionals should try to cater for the needs of the family and treat it as a distinct group of people who needs special management, attention, care, update, support and approach.

Keywords: Family needs; Severely ill patients; Intensive care unit; Nursing care