Family participations in ICU medical rounds: A Mixed Method Review

In line with the patient- and family-centered care concept, no care plan is complete without considering the voice and will of patients and their relatives. Involving families in medical rounds offers opportunities for collaboration, enhanced communication with the medical team, updates on the patient's condition, and joint decision-making.

This mixed-method systematic review aimed to provide evidence on family experiences regarding participation in medical rounds-specifically benefits, barriers, and suggestions-in adult ICUs.

A mixed-method systematic review was conducted. Four databases were searched. Studies published in between 2014 and 2025 were included.

A total of 14 studies met the inclusion criteria. The reported experiences were categorized into three groups: benefits, barriers, and suggestions. Family presence on rounds was associated with improved medical staff family relationship, increased family satisfaction with care, improved the mental condition of the FM and increased knowledge of the patient's condition and clinical plan. Organizational barriers as well as barriers associated with medical staff were identified. Clear policies, inviting the family to participate in the rounds and improving the communication skills among medical staff are important to improve this intervention.

Family participation in ICU rounds has a positive impact on family mental health and improves perceptions of the quality of patient care. ICUs should consider integrating family participation into routine practice.

Improve communication skills among staff, both within the team and with patients and their families. Educate medical staff on how to conduct rounds with families and highlight the associated benefits. Use mnemonic tools for family communication. Provide orientation tools to help families understand the rounds. Schedule rounds to enable family participation. Consider telemedicine as an alternative when in-person meetings are not feasible.