BACKGROUND:  Family needs in the ICU have been well documented. Liberal visiting hours were instituted based on evidence that demonstrates the important role families play in improved outcomes and satisfaction of patients in the ICU. The results of a nursing survey support the liberal visiting hours but suggest that more assistance is needed to help our families. The use of hospital volunteers was recommended to provide information, direction and comfort to families. The nursing staff is focused on the care of the patient and it can be difficult to control the flow of visitors due to our liberal visiting policy. This results in decreased satisfaction levels by both the families and nurses.

OBJECTIVES:  To improve family and nurse satisfaction with liberal visiting hours by utilizing the volunteer services department.

METHODS:  Volunteers are used during our non-visiting times. They provide information, guidance and direction to families. The CCFSS has been distributed to all ICU families’ pre and post implementation of the VSP. The results of the surveys are being tabulated to measure levels of satisfaction. Nurse satisfaction with the VSP will be determined using analysis of a pre and post VSP survey.

RESULTS: Preliminary results show trending improvement in family satisfaction and positive feedback from nurses.

CONCLUSION: Volunteers have been helpful to families during non-visiting hours by providing necessary support and direction. They have also been helpful to nurses by allowing more time for patient care and less time for controlling flow of visitors. This results in improved satisfaction levels for both families and nurses.

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See more of The 17th International Nursing Research Congress Focusing on Evidence-Based Practice (19-22 July 2006)