The needs of families of patients admitted into the intensive care unit in third world countries: an integrative literature review
Date
2021
Authors
Ngema, Nomthandazo
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Abstract
Background: The sudden admission of a patient with life-threatening illness into the intensive
care unit has a profound effect on the family members of patients. While the needs of familiesof
patients admitted in the intensive care unit have been examined from various perspectives, the
needs of patient’s families in third world countries are yet to be explored through this review.
This will be unique to the body of knowledge
Aim: The aim of this review was to gather evidence related to the needs of families of patients
admitted in the intensive care unit in third world countries.
Methods: An integrative literature review methodology was used. The review was guided by
the five stages outlined by Whittemore and Knafl. Literature search was conducted using
databases: SCOPUS, PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE and Psycho INFO. Keywords used
included: family, needs, intensive care unit, and third world countries. A total of 492 studies
were retrieved after using the search filters and date limits. Ten articles were finally included
as they met the inclusion criteria set for the review.
Results: Ten studies were included in this review. The need domains were synthesised under
five themes: ‘assurance’; ‘information’; proximity’; ‘comfort’ and ‘support’.
Conclusion: In third-world countries, family members of critically ill patients in the ICU
perceive and share similar needs just as those in the first and second world countries, especially
in the domains of assurance and information. Family members form an integral part of patient
care in the ICU. The multidisciplinary team need to recognise the needs of family members
and develop supportive structures to attend to their needs. Paying attention to these needs will
enhance effective communication.
Description
A research report submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree Master of Science in Nursing to the Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2021