Unrestricted Visiting Hours in ICU: Enhancing Patient Care
School
University of Nairobi School of Biological Sciences**We aren't endorsed by this school
Course
NURS 504
Subject
Nursing
Date
Dec 12, 2024
Pages
2
Uploaded by UltraSalmonMaster1177
The selected nursing intervention is unrestricted visiting hours versus limited visiting in the ICU, chosen for its potential to impact patient outcomes and family satisfaction. Research suggests that unrestricted visiting hours may enhance emotional support for patients, reduce anxiety for families, and improve communication with healthcare providers.Authors and Decision-MakingGuidelines from the Cochrane Reviewsand the American Nurses Association (ANA)highlight the importance of patient-centered care. The Cochrane Review by Wilson et al. (2023) included nurses in decision-making, reinforcing their pivotal role in appraising evidence. Involving nurses is vital as they understand the nuances of patient care and family dynamics, ensuring evidence-based interventions align with practical nursing perspectives.Evidence ConsideredCochrane Reviews utilized randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and qualitative studies to evaluate the effects of visiting hour policies on patient and family satisfaction. The ANA guidelines incorporated systematic reviews, expert consensus, and patient experience data.Quality and Strength of EvidenceThe evidence supporting unrestricted visiting hours is high-quality, with systematic reviews consistently demonstrating improved patient satisfaction, reduced delirium rates, and better family well-being. Recommendations are strong, emphasizing the integration of flexible visiting policies to enhance patient-centered care.Comparison to PracticeAt our institution, visiting hours are moderately restricted to balance patient rest and family
access. However, aligning with evidence-based guidelines could improve outcomes without compromising care quality.EBP and Collaborative CareEvidence-based practice (EBP) fosters collaboration by integrating insights from multidisciplinary teams, including nurses, physicians, and families. This approach ensures interventions are comprehensive, addressing diverse needs while maintaining patient safety.In conclusion, implementing unrestricted visiting hours in the ICU aligns with evidence-based guidelines, promotes collaborative care, and prioritizes patient and family-centered outcomes.