Disrupted Sensemaking—Understanding Family Experiences of Physical Restraints in ICU: A Phenomenological Approach in the Context of COVID-19

The emergence of COVID-19 profoundly influenced the dynamics within intensive care units, significantly altering the patient-family experience. As the pandemic unfolded, the longstanding practice of using physical restraints for patient safety persisted, introducing new challenges in healthcare settings. This study explored the ramifications of these enduring safety measures on family members of ICU patients during the pandemic, illuminating their lived experiences and the psychological impact of seeing their loved ones restrained. To explore family members' lived experiences with physical restraints in the ICU during COVID-19 and inform improvements in patient-centered care. Utilizing hermeneutic phenomenology, the study engaged ten family members in detailed interviews to gain an understanding of their experiences with ICU physical restraints during COVID-19. Conducted at a northeastern U.S. hospital, the collected narratives underwent thematic analysis within a sensemaking framework, yielding a profound understanding of family perspectives. Family members faced challenges in understanding and coping with physical restraints, revealing a need for improved healthcare system support for family sensemaking and well-being. The study advocates integrating empathetic communication and family engagement into ICU care practices, underlining the importance of sensemaking during healthcare crises.