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)1989 and she has 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 Anesthesia 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 Anesthesia 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 Anesthesia 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 Anesthesia 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 anesthesia care unit is needed that may guide change in departmental policies and procedures.

Keywords: Family needs, post anesthesia nursing, post anesthesia care unit, recovery room, Kingdom of Bahrain