Perceptions and preferences of patients, family/friends and nurses on visiting time in ICU

Abstract

Advances in science and technology have made nursing practice in acute care settings complex, rapid and demanding. Hospital visiting hours and rules are established for the comfort and safety of patients and their loved ones. In addition, there is the need to focus on the needs of 'the customer'.

The researcher adopted a descriptive, exploratory approach to determine the perceptions and preferences of patients, family members/friends and nurses of visiting time in ICUs. The aim was to recommend mechanisms and measures with regard to the desired visiting schedule that would enhance patient-centred integrated care in ICUs.

The study found that patients and family members/friends preferred extended visiting time and perceived this as beneficial to them, while the majority of the nurses preferred scheduled visiting time.