Available online 2 August 2022, 103308

This study assessed opinions and experiences of healthcare professionals, former patients and family members during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and focuses on challenges in family-centred care for ICU patients and affected families.

Research Methodology/Design

A two-round modified Delphi process assessed the opinions and experiences of experts such as healthcare professionals, former patients and their families (n=151).

Setting

This study was conducted across four countries in Europe.

In total, 121 participants (response rate 80.13%) answered the first Delphi round; the second was answered by 131 participants (response rate 86.75%). Participants perceived family support in the ICU as highly important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enabling contact amongst patients, families and clinicians is regarded as essential to build hope and confidence in the treatment and the recovery process. The extraordinary situation led to the implementation of new communication structures such as video calls and websites.

A consensus was reached between healthcare professionals that virtual contact is essential for patients with COVID-19 and their families during visit restrictions. This should be done to establish confidence in the treatment.

Communication

COVID-19

Critical Care

Family

Isolation

Visiting Ban

coronavirus disease 2019

post-traumatic stress disorder

Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus

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