| Summary: | ICU syndrome is a mental syndrome of acute onset that occurs in some patients in
a critical care unit. This syndrome continues to occur frequently and serves to increase
both morbidity and mortality in affected patients. Despite the continued occurrence a"
limited amount of information is known about the effects on the patients, and nothing is
known about the effects on family members. A literature review indicates no specific
qualitative studies had been conducted in this area. Some related research studies
indicated that a critical illness affects not only the patient but family members as well. A
critical illness compounded by ICU syndrome, can have the potential for long-term
effects for both the patient and the family.
This study was designed to gain an understanding of ICU syndrome from the
perspective of the family members. A qualitative descriptive methodology was used to
guide this study. This approach was guided by the assumption that people do make order
and sense of their environment although this world may appear disoriented and
nonsensical to others. Ten family members of patients who experienced ICU syndrome
agreed to participate in this study. Interviews were conducted on two separate occasions.
Analysis of the data revealed that participants identified 12 major categories of responses
in relation to ICU syndrome. The participants identified some responses similar to the
literature reviewed, but also brought forth several findings that moved beyond the current
literature. These findings indicated that ICU syndrome caused them to take on greater roles in the family unit. Respondents exhibited great strength, cared a great deal for the
patient, and demonstrated caring, helpful and supportive roles. These roles were
maintained throughout the hospitalization. The occurrence of the syndrome meant that
the respondents would need to reassess their plans for the future. Information was
needed by the respondents specifically related to the syndrome and this need was not
always met adequately by the health care team. The patients exhibited a great deal of
trust in the respondents to help them while they were ill and/or suffering from the
syndrome. The respondents felt it was important for them to try to make some meaning
of the behaviours noted during the syndrome and to pass on this information to the staff
who did not know the patient as they did.
The findings are discussed in relation to the framework and literature reviewed.
Areas that move beyond the information currently known about family members
responses are discussed and recommendations for nursing practice included.
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