Experiences of critically ill patients in the ICU.

BACKGROUND: Experiences of critically ill patients are an important aspect of the quality of care in the intensive care (ICU).

OBJECTIVE: The aims of the study were firstly, to evaluate the perceptions of patients regarding nursing care in the ICU, and secondly, to explore patients' perceptions and experiences of ICU stay.

METHOD: A qualitative approach using a semi-structured focused interview in 11 patients was used (phase 1), followed by a quantitative approach using a self-reported questionnaire in 100 patients, 62 were returned and 50 could be evaluated (phase 2).

RESULTS: A number of themes emerged from the interviews (phase 1), although support dominated as an important key theme. This was experienced as a continuum from the feeling being supported by the nurse to not being supported. This key theme was central to each of the three categories emerging from the data pertaining to: (1) providing the seriously ill patient with information and explanation, (2) placing the patient in a central position and (3) personal approach by the nurse. The responders to the subsequent questionnaire (phase 2) predominantly experienced sleeping disorders (48%), mostly related to the presence of noise (54%). Psychological problems after ICU stay were reported by 11% of the patients, i.e. fear, inability to concentrate, complaints of depression and hallucinations.

CONCLUSIONS: Although the nurses' expertise and technical skills are considered important, caring behaviour, relieving the patient of fear and worries were experienced as most valuable in bedside critical care.