Needs of relatives of critically ill patients: a descriptive study

Relatives of critically ill patients were able to identify their needs during the intensive care phase of hospitalization. The universal need identified as very important was the need for hope. Other important needs were concerned with receiving adequate and honest information and feeling that the hospital staff members were concerned about the patient. Although several of the needs appeared to be of great concern to relatives, all the needs were considered very important by at least one relative. The majority of needs were perceived as being met consistently. Various resources were used by the relatives to meet their needs; however, specific needs were expected to be met by physicians and nurses. Since many relatives have similar needs, the use of a group process to deal with them should be investigated. A group process allows for sharing and support among the relatives and also allows one staff member to work with several relatives. The relatives perceived the role of health care personnel to be patientcentered only. If the patient is a member of a family, then the family and staff should recognize that the health care personnel are helping relatives because it is a crucial part of total patient care. This area in providing total patient care needs to be studied carefully. The relatives of critically ill patients have important needs in this crisis period. By recognizing these needs and evaluating how they are being met, total patient care will involve the family. Such involvement is essential to the care of the critically ill patient.