Self-Service System for the Family Members of ICU Patients: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Healthcare technology
• Patient and family support
• Intensive care unit management

Background:

• Family members of ICU patients experience significant anxiety and information needs.
• Healthcare institutions face challenges, including staff shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Traditional support methods are strained, necessitating innovative solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the feasibility of an intensive care unit self-service system (ICU-SSS).
• To identify the needs of family members with patients in intensive care units.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of an ICU-SSS in a healthcare setting.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys.
• Qualitative interviews were conducted with five family members and five ICU staff.
• A quantitative survey was administered to 30 family members to assess system functions.

Main Results:

• Interviews identified nine distinct categories of needs among family members.
• Family members rated most ICU-SSS functions acceptably.
• The importance of "Logistical information" was rated lower than other functions by family members.

Conclusions:

• An ICU-SSS is a feasible and potentially effective tool for supporting family members of ICU patients.
• The system can help alleviate anxiety and improve information access for families.
• Further refinement, particularly regarding logistical information delivery, may enhance system utility.