Applied nursing research : ANR
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This correlational study describes levels of hope and states of anxiety of individual family members of critically ill patients and investigates the relationship between hope and state of anxiety. Forty-four family members of critically ill patients participated in the study and revealed a high level of hope and a high level of anxiety within 72 hours of the patient's hospitalization, regardless of personal or situational characteristics. ⋯ Family members acknowledged feeling secure, self-confident, and steady, and were able to make decisions because they were not confused about the situation. Nurses are challenged to inspire the family's hope and decrease their anxiety.