FAMILY NEEDS OF PATIENTS ADMITTED IN CRITICAL CARE UNITS OF TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS, PESHAWAR

Abstract

Background: Critically ill patients in Intensive Care Units (ICUs) not only require clinical interventions but also demand attention to the psychological and informational needs of their family members. Families often endure extreme stress, anxiety, and emotional turmoil, especially in tertiary healthcare settings of low-resource countries like Pakistan. Addressing these needs is essential for enhancing both patient outcomes and family satisfaction. Aim: The study aimed to assess and explore the perceived needs of family members of critically ill patients admitted to critical care units in tertiary care hospitals in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. Data were collected from 300 family members using a modified Critical Care Family Needs Inventory (CCFNI). Participants were selected through a convenience sampling technique from three tertiary hospitals: Lady Reading Hospital (LRH), Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC), and Khyber Teaching Hospital (KTH). The responses were rated on a four-point Likert scale and analyzed using SPSS version 22. Results: The five most important perceived needs were assurance-related: hope (86.3%), feeling that hospital staff cared (84%), help with physical care (80.3%), discussions about the possibility of death (79.7%), and assurance of the best care (79.7%). Conversely, the least prioritized needs included comfortable furniture (20.4%) and the need to discuss guilt or anger (24%). Emotional, informational, and proximity-related needs were also highly emphasized. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for healthcare institutions to prioritize emotional, informational, and logistical support for families. Integrating structured communication, empathy, and culturally sensitive care can significantly improve family satisfaction in ICUs.