AJCC -- eLetters for McAdam and Puntillo, 18 (3) 200-209

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Families in Critical Care:
Jennifer L. McAdam and Kathleen Puntillo
Symptoms Experienced by Family Members of Patients in Intensive Care Units
Am J Crit Care 2009; 18: 200-209 [Abstract] [Full text] [PDF]

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Family Members' Symptoms: Julie M. Long (15 September 2009)

Family Members' Symptoms 15 September 2009

Julie M. Long,
BSN Nursing Student
Saint Anthony College of Nursing
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Re: Family Members' Symptoms

julie.long{at}osfhealthcare.org Julie M. Long

I read with much interest “Symptoms experienced by family members of patients in intensive care units.” I believe in the importance of family- centered care as discussed in the article. I will be entering my senior year for my BSN in nursing. Our next semester includes a clinical in the intensive care unit. I have been in intensive care units for loved ones and know how stressful and overwhelming that can be. I appreciated that the article highlights the importance of being aware that families of patients in the intensive care unit endure increased anxiety and depression levels. The article also states the importance of medical staff working closely with patients to decrease these psychological conditions.
The authors show a significant increase in psychological conditions among family members. It also stated that research showed a bias that mostly women endure these events. However, I found that the use of support systems and the idea of implementing support groups very useful. Peskett and Gibb stated that with minimal support from medical staff and encouragment to talk and join support groups, significant decreases in symptoms of psychological distress occur.
Upon entering into my next semester for critical care, I will implement these findings into my nursing practice. Thank you for providing insight into this topic.
Reference Peskett, M., Gibb, P. Developing and setting up a patient and relatives intensive care support group. British Association of Critical Care Nurses. 2009;14 (1): 4-10.