Relatives' experiences in intensive care--finding a place in a world of uncertainty.
The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of relatives of critically ill patients in adult intensive care. A qualitative research design was chosen, using a Grounded Theory approach. In-depth interviews were conducted with four spouses and three parents in a Danish University Hospital. An overall process of fitting in was apparent, explaining how relatives tried to manoeuvre in a chaotic and scary situation. The relatives were clearly in turmoil, yet found ways of coping in the situation and developing adaptation ability. Three major strategies were identified: enduring uncertainty, putting self aside and forming personal cues. This explorative study points to relatives being vulnerable and resourceful at the same time, struggling to find a place, experiencing distance from the patient as well as from the professionals and uncertainty regarding what to expect and how to act in the ICU. The study is a contribution to understanding relatives' needs and strategies and to developing better communication and cooperation between nurses and the patients' relatives.
Agård
Anne Sophie
AS
Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Skejby Sygehus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark. anne.agard@reher-langberg.dk <anne.agard@reher-langberg.dk>
Harder
Ingegerd
I
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001007:Anxiety / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003422:Critical Care / Q000523:psychology*; D003463:Cues; D003718:Denmark; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006117:Grief; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006379:Helping Behavior; D006785:Hospitals, University; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D011368:Professional-Family Relations; D011446:Prospective Studies; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012380:Role; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D035501:Uncertainty