[Family satisfaction in intensive care unit: a prospective survey]

To assess family satisfaction in the intensive care unit (ICU) and to identify parameters for improvement.

Prospective observational monocentric study.

One hundred and twenty families were given a questionnaire of twenty-four items covering: satisfaction with reception and waiting areas, satisfaction with care and satisfaction with information/decision-making. Each item was evaluated by families according to three levels: high, intermediate, and poor satisfaction. Opinions concerning accessibility time, information notice and visitor limitations were also gathered.

Several factors, such as waiting time, respect of family's wishes, visiting hours, lack of social support, and examination's results communication were associated with poor level of satisfaction. Twenty-three percent of families felt restricted by visitation policy for children and 17 % by visitor's number limitation.

Quality of family reception in the ICU needs to be improved concerning waiting time, visiting hours, social and emotional support.