Intensive care nurses' experiences of assessing and dealing with patients' psychological needs

Several authors have highlighted the short- and long-term psychological effects of an intensive care unit (ICU) stay. Few authors have discussed the nurses' perceptions of psychological care. In this research, 12 nurses, who currently work in ICU, were interviewed using a semi-structured technique. Six categories were developed about issues in psychological care. Implications for practice included the important role of the family, need for improved communication and improved staff awareness of issues.