Learning Objective #1: Describe family-centered care in the ICU

Learning Objective #2: Discuss the advantages of open visitation in the ICU

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The purpose of this research was to determine if Family Centered Care in an adult Medical Critical Care Area (MCC) improves family satisfaction with information, reassurance and support, and the need to be with the patient. Family Centered Care is a philosophical approach for providing care to patients and their families. The premise is that the patient is part of a larger whole, which we need to be aware of and provide the best care for. The MCC had four separate patient care areas. One area was the control unit and another was the experimental unit. The concept of Family Center Care was introduced to the staff of the experimental unit by the Unit Director. Pre and post implementation data were collected from health care personal working in this area and families. The first change was open visitation for families. A core group of staff members developed guidelines, family information sheets, and provided education sessions for all members of the staff. The families are able to visit their loved one twenty four hours a day, seven days a week, and thus their need to be with their loved one are addressed. Results show that families feel that their need to be with the patient is met and that the visiting hours are accommodating to the families. The health care team verbalized reservations prior to implementation but have since recognized the positive impact the family can have on the care of the critically ill patient. The change to open visitation was an effective strategy to meet the needs of the patient and family. The results of this study provide direction for further research utilizing Family Center Care in the Adult MCC.