Critical care medicine
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Critical care medicine · Sep 2021
Randomized Controlled TrialMechanism of a Flexible ICU Visiting Policy for Anxiety Symptoms Among Family Members in Brazil: A Path Mediation Analysis in a Cluster-Randomized Clinical Trial.
To investigate whether the effect of a flexible ICU visiting policy that includes flexible visitation plus visitor education on anxiety symptoms of family members is mediated by satisfaction and involvement in patient care. ⋯ A flexible ICU visiting policy reduces anxiety symptoms among family members and appears to work by increasing satisfaction. However, increased participation in some activities of patient care as a result of flexible visitation was associated with higher severity of anxiety symptoms.
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Critical care medicine · Sep 2021
Randomized Controlled TrialThe Impact of Earplugs and Eye Masks on Sleep Quality in Surgical ICU Patients at Risk for Frequent Awakenings.
Sleep disturbances may contribute to the development of delirium, prolonged ICU stay, and increased mortality. There is conflicting data on the effectiveness of earplugs and eye masks for sleep promotion in the ICU. This study evaluates the impact of earplugs and eye masks on sleep quality in postoperative surgical ICU patients at risk for frequent awakenings. ⋯ These results suggest that earplugs and eye masks are effective in improving sleep quality in ICU patients undergoing frequent assessments. The results strengthen the evidence for nonpharmacologic sleep-promoting adjuncts in the ICU.