Title: The perceived and unmet needs of adult family members of patients in PACU

Biography:

Hana Kadhom has 35 years’ experience in nursing as a practitioner and educator. Her experience has been across the Middle East and UK. She obtained her PhD from the University Of Hull (UK) in 1989 and she has completed her advanced postgraduate diplomas from British Universities in Nursing Education and Health and Safety. She is a former Senior lecturer and Director of Nursing Degree Bridging programme (RCSI) University of Royal College of Surgeon Bahrain and Saudi Aramco.

Abstract

Background:The existence of specific and identifiable family needs of critically ill patients has been proven through research studies. However, little is known about the needs of family members of patients in Post Anaesthesia Care Unit who may experience stress, anxiety, helplessness, and inability to cope.
Aims of the research:The aim of the study is to (a) evaluate the perceived needs of adult family members of patients in Post Anaesthesia Care Unit, (b) to know to what extend these needs are met, and (c) to identify whether the needs differ based on background characteristics.

Methodology and Research Design:A quantitative, descriptive design was utilized. A convenient sample of 100 adult family members of patients in Post Anaesthesia Care Unit was selected at one of the tertiary hospitals in Bahrain. A questionnaire was used that include: a demographic data form, the Critical Care Family Needs Inventory(CCFNI),and Needs Met Inventory (NMI).Descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 20 was used for data analysis. 
Findings/ Results:The findings showed that the 10 most important needs identified by family members were related to Assurance and Information with mean score of 3.87. The need for Assurance was perceived as always met with mean score of 3.51. No significant differences due to gender, age, level of education, relationship to patient, and household were found.

Conclusion:The family members of patients in Post Anaesthesia Care Unit considered the need to be reassured and kept informed during the immediate post-operative period as very important.

Recommendations:Nurses must direct their practice towards holistic care by implementing effective interventions to meet the family needs and enhance their ability to cope. Further study of visitation in post anaesthesia care unit is needed that may guide change in departmental policies and procedures.