Harefuah
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The present study aimed to evaluate subjective reactions of post-surgery and anesthesia patients who stay in post-anesthesia care units (PACU) longer than necessary medically, due to administrative causes. ⋯ Overcrowded wards may lead to significant delays in discharge from the PACU. Prolonged stay in the PACU requires attention, both from the administrative and the medical standpoints, because it may irritate the patient. Patients' irate behavior may distract the medical staff from effectively performing their duties and interferes with optimal medical care in the PACU.
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Although effective communication with families of critically ill patients is a vital component of quality care, training in this field is neglected. ⋯ This preliminary study demonstrates the value of communication skills training in the intensive care environment.