[Informing the families of patients admitted to an intensive care unit].
The admission of a patient to the intensive care unit (ICU) disturbs the family's normal function. Family members are confronted by a new and difficult situation and react with worry and anxiety. They have different needs, particularly for information and assurance. Only effective communication between the family and health-care team helps. The conditions affecting human communication were analyzed, with emphasis on the situations typical of the hospital environment that negatively influence communication. A bibliographic review was made of useful strategies for improving communication with families. To conclude, recommendations are made for facilitating communication, improving the family's well-being, and easing their adjustment to the disease process.
Zazpe Oyarzun
M C
MC
Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos. Clinica Universitaria de Navarra, Pamplona.
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D003142:Communication; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D010343:Patient Admission; D011368:Professional-Family Relations