Exploring Anticipatory Grief and Coping in Families of Critically Ill Patients: Implications for Nursing Support and...

Research suggests that recognizing and addressing anticipatory grief, as well as employing proactive coping strategies, is crucial to mitigating its negative effects on psychological well-being and decision-making in families of critically ill patients.

This study aimed to validate the Anticipatory Grief Scale in family members of intensive care unit patients, examine the extent of anticipatory grief in this population, and investigate the relationship between coping styles and anticipatory grief in these family members.

This cross-sectional study in a Medical Intensive Care Unit collected data from family members of critically ill patients. Participants were English-speaking family members aged 18+. The study used the Anticipatory Grief Scale (AGS) and Brief COPE to measure grief and coping, analyzing data with statistics and regression. Cognitive interviews validated the Anticipatory Grief Scale.

Of the 40 family members of critically ill patients who completed the study, most were women and from diverse racial backgrounds. The study found that family members experienced anticipatory grief, with single, nonmarried individuals reporting the highest levels. Avoidant coping was a nearly significant predictor of anticipatory grief. The Anticipatory Grief Scale effectively measured grief in this population; however, cognitive interviews highlighted some issues with the survey in the ICU context.

The AGS-13 shows promise as a tool for use with families of ICU patients; however, additional research is needed to establish its utility in this setting. Studies with larger sample sizes are warranted, along with the development and testing of targeted nursing interventions, such as the Caregiver Pathway intervention and stress-reduction strategies, to support family members.