Nursing Practices in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit to Promote Interaction Between Children With Life-Threatening Conditions and Their Family Members

Abstract

Objectives: The present study aimed to elucidate nursing practices in Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICU) that promote interaction between children with life-threatening conditions and their family members.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews of 10 nurses with at least 5 years of clinical experience in PICU were conducted, and their responses were qualitatively analyzed using a descriptive approach.

Results: Intervention found in settings that promote physical contact started from the preparatory stage, such as “preparing before meeting,” and included “supporting the child and their family meetings” and “arranging time for family members to be involved and spend time with their child.” Furthermore, an intervention that focused on psychological aspects, such as “extending support to the family about the child and nurse’s thoughts” and “getting to know the child and their family members,” was also found, showing the variety of nursing practices.

Conclusions: Nursing practices that promote interaction in the PICU promote physical contact and include psychologically connecting with the family, communicating important information, and ascertaining their needs. We believe this finding demonstrates that emotional communication is useful for establishing interaction.