[Information strategies in a polyvalent Intensive Care Unit].
BACKGROUND
Understanding the information provided to families and surrogates of the critically ill patients admitted to ICUs and its adequate communication without contradictions, is a fundamental aspect related with the possible participation of these persons in the treatment decision making and with the quality perceived regarding the care process. Our aim in this study is to assess these two aspects (information and communication of information).


METHODS
Opinion study elaborated by the medical team and nursing staff of a multidisciplinary ICU.


METHODS
Observational qualitative study performed through an open answers questionnaire. Search for agreement on terminology and concepts that should be included in the information and estimation of the different contents of information provided by the main health care professional groups (physicians and nurses). Using the Delphi technique to elaborate an information communication sheet between different staff members in order to homogenize the information process.


RESULTS
The analysis of the questionnaire reveals the great heterogeneity of the contents and modes of information provided. This may cause difficulties in understanding and the integration of families and relatives in the care process. The agreement achieved among the different between physicians to facilitate the information and avoid subjective interpretations by the informed people is presented.
Abizanda Campos
R
R
Servicio de Medicina Intensiva, Hospital Universitario Asociado General de Castellón, Castellón, España. abizanda_ric@gva.es
Bernat Adell
A
A
Ballester Arnal
R
R
Bisbal Andrés
E
E
Vidal Tegedor
B
B
Cubedo Bort
M
M
Reig Valero
R
R
D003142:Communication; D005190:Family; D006801:Humans; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires