Nursing practices that support the autonomy of ventilated patients under light sedation in the intensive care unit

Abstract

　The purpose of this study was to elucidate nursing practices that support the autonomy of ventilated patients under light sedation in the intensive care unit. Data were collected in semi-structured interviews of four nurses with nursing experience caring for ventilated patients in an intensive care unit, and analyzed qualitatively and inductively.

　The analysis revealed six themes for such nursing practices: “Mitigating the patient’s loss of strength and assisting with the maintenance of the patient’s physical abilities” and “Getting close to the patient and understanding his or her feelings” while “Creating a sense of security where the patient can communicate even if he or she cannot speak” due to intubation, “Respecting the patient’s desire to know and helping him or her understand the situation,” “Providing support so that the patient can move safely, while taking that movement as part of daily life ” and “Reclaiming Daily Life with Patients”

　From these results, it is inferred that nurses make mental and physical preparations so that patients can display their autonomy, implement nursing practices that help the patient recover a sense of daily life, and work together with patients toward their goals. The results suggest that these practices will be helpful in nursing that supports the autonomy of ventilated patients under light sedation.