Comparison of Open Visiting and Restricted Visiting in ICU Chronic Critical Patients: Effects on Negative Emotions and Delirium

Objective: To compare the effects of open visiting versus restricted visiting on negative emotions and delirium in ICU chronic critical patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 264 chronic critical patients admitted to a tertiary hospital ICU between January 2025 and January 2026. Patients were divided into a restricted visiting control group (n=132) and an open visiting study group (n=132) based on the implementation of open visiting in December 2025. The open group received 24-hour access, while the control group received 1 hour daily. Clinical outcomes, psychological status, and delirium incidence were compared. Results: The study group had significantly shorter mechanical ventilation time (15.44± 1.28 vs. 18.88± 3.47 days), ICU stay (12.17± 3.33 vs. 15.91± 3.78 days), and total hospital stay (20.22± 3.16 vs. 25.11± 5.11 days) compared to the control group (all P< 0.05). Treatment compliance was higher in the study group (89.39% vs. 75.45%, P< 0.05). At discharge, the study group showed lower HADS scores (11.22± 1.96 vs. 14.78± 2.25 points), as well as lower family state anxiety (44.23± 2.17 vs. 56.89± 2.88) and trait anxiety scores (44.18± 1.89 vs. 57.54± 3.11) (all P< 0.05). Delirium incidence was significantly reduced in the study group (11.36% vs. 25.76%, P< 0.05). No significant difference in ICU air quality was observed between groups (P> 0.05). Conclusion: Open visiting mode is superior to restricted visiting in improving psychological outcomes, reducing delirium, and enhancing clinical recovery in ICU chronic critical patients, supporting its clinical promotion.