Going it alone: the experiences of spouses of critically ill patients.
Spouses of critically ill patients are faced with major changes in responsibilities while their spouse is in the intensive care unit. Using grounded theory methods, this qualitative study investigated the changes in responsibilities and the impact these additional responsibilities (such as financial decision making and child care) had on patients' spouses. Patients' spouses need help to meet their needs and alleviate some stress so they can "be there" for their critically ill partner.
Hupcey
J E
JE
Pennsylvania State University's College of Health and Human Development, School of Nursing, Hershey, Pa., USA.
Penrod
J
J
D016638:Critical Illness / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012941:Social Responsibility; D018454:Spouses / Q000523:psychology*