Effectiveness Study With Families

In the effectiveness study, researchers are examining whether comprehensive involvement, communication, and support for family members in the intensive care unit lead to a better overall experience and fewer long-term negative consequences for families. A lack of communication and support can cause significant emotional stress for relatives and may have lasting effects on their mental health.

The aim of the study is to determine whether a new family-focused care model – led by specially trained nurses responsible for family care – increases family members' satisfaction, strengthens communication between the treatment team and the family, and improves nursing support for families. The study also investigates whether this model – compared to existing approaches to supporting families – reduces the long-term psychological burden and improves the family’s ability to cope with the critical illness situation.

To evaluate this, the FICUS® care model was implemented in 8 intensive care units across Switzerland, while 8 additional ICUs continued with their usual family care practices. Family members of patients who were critically ill or severely injured and treated in these 16 ICUs for more than two days were regularly surveyed during and after the ICU stay – over a period of one year.

Initial findings show: The care model led to a slight improvement in family members' satisfaction – especially regarding involvement in decision-making. The quality of communication, as well as the emotional and behavioral support perceived by families, was rated significantly higher. Further analyses are currently underway, investigating whether the model also strengthens family dynamics and has a positive effect on the mental health of relatives.