Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this integrative review was to examine current literature to determine the benefits and challenges posed upon patients and families and the need to revisit a patient- and family-centered care (PFCC) approach in the adult ICU setting. Background: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the progression towards flexible ICU visitation and PFCC, resulting in confusion due to inconsistent hospital policies and negatively impacting mental health outcomes for patients, families, and healthcare teams, highlighting the need to reevaluate ICU visitation policies for potential benefits and challenges. Literature Search: A comprehensive literature search and synthesis was performed using the PubMed database for relevant articles within the specified parameters. Thirteen articles were selected for systematic review and thematic analysis. Discussion: The literature review highlights the benefits of flexible visitation policies grounded in PFCC principles, such as reduced patient anxiety and improved family satisfaction in ICU settings. However, challenges related to disrupted routines, infection transmission concerns, and increased stress were observed, especially during the COVID-19 with the implementation of flexible visitation policies. Conclusion: Flexible visitation policies support reduced delirium and anxiety, empower families in decision-making, enhance communication with healthcare teams, and improve overall satisfaction. However, the presence of families can also pose challenges for healthcare professionals, including increased workload and burnout. Future research should further investigate visitation policies to align with the values of PFCC from the perspectives of patients, families, and healthcare staff while continuing current evidence-based practices (EBP).
Olivia Skertich (Sun,) studied this question.