Family Presence in the Adult Burn Intensive Care Unit During Dressing Changes

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2013

Disciplines

Critical Care Nursing | Family Practice Nursing | Nursing

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:

To improve communication, discharge readiness, and satisfaction of burn patients and their families.

METHODS:

In March 2009, the burn intensive care unit at University of Louisville Hospital, Louisville, Kentucky, incorporated family presence during dressing changes. Adverse family events during observation, measures of patient- and family-centered care according to a standardized patient satisfaction survey, infection rates, and staff members' response to the intervention were tracked.

RESULTS:

Through December 2011, no adverse family events occurred, patients' satisfaction scores increased, and infection rates did not increase. Staff members responded positively to the project.

CONCLUSIONS:

Allowing family presence during dressing changes provides an opportunity to educate and include patients' family members in care delivery.

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