Abstract
This investigation addressed family member perceptions of preparation for withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment in the intensive care unit. These families are at a high risk for psychosocial and physical sequelae. The quantitative results of this mixed methods study are reported. A control group received usual care and an educational booklet component of the intervention. The experimental group received the above plus exposure to comfort cart items and additional psychological support. Twenty-eight family members enrolled over a 13-month period. Sixty-one percent (10 intervention, 7 control) completed the follow-up. Fourteen family members (82%) recalled the booklet. Some family members reported moderate to severe depression (12.5%), anxiety (12.5%), and stress (12.6%). Satisfaction with care (83.7%-85.2%) and family member well-being (44.1) were within the norm. Short Form-36 physical component score was higher than the norm, and the mental component score was lower than the norm. This study demonstrated feasibility and acceptability of the interventions and follow-up questionnaires when families make the difficult decision to withdraw treatment. Strategies are suggested to strengthen statistical power.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 89-97 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Journal of Hospice and Palliative Nursing |
Volume | 23 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2021 |
Keywords
- booklet
- comfort cart
- end of life
- family support
- intensive care unit
- intervention study
- withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Community and Home Care
- Advanced and Specialized Nursing