Dimensions of critical care nursing : DCCN
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Dimens Crit Care Nurs · Nov 2006
Comparative StudyIdentification of special care needs: the comparison of the cardiothoracic intensive care unit patient and nurse.
The purposes of this study were to assess (a) the critically ill patient's and critical care nurse's identification and perception of special care needs and (b) the relationship between the patient's and nurse's perception of the identified special care needs. A qualitative approach, using linked data and open-ended surveys, was used to identify common themes and patterns in data. Data collection took place over a 2-month period at a metropolitan research hospital in the Southeast. ⋯ Findings indicate that both nurses and patients feel that the special care needs of the patient are being met. Common needs currently identified by the patient include miscommunication, anxiety, pain, and relaxation. Common needs currently identified by the nurses include pain management, nausea, and comfort.
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Dimens Crit Care Nurs · Nov 2006
Should we allow children to visit ill parents in intensive care units?
Visitation policies in intensive care units are very strict. These serve to protect the critically ill patient. ⋯ At all times, children should be accompanied by another family member during their visit. Nurses are invited to send in their own comments and to provide their experiences regarding having children visit patients in intensive care units.