Table 1 The barriers likely to hinder the family presence in the ICU can be overcome by specific strategies
From: Why and how to open intensive care units to family visits during the pandemic
Barriers to ICU visits | Strategies for implementation | |
|---|---|---|
Clinical | Risk of the relatives’ infection when entering CoViD-19 ICUs | Adequate donning and doffing protocols |
Risk of patients’ infection in COVID-free critically ill patients | Screening of family members and visitors before visit | |
Inadequate or incomplete PPE employment | Clear instructions and supervision | |
Physical discomfort of the visiting family member | Preventive instructions and staff availability | |
Cultural | Family visits are not a priority for the staff | ICU staff debriefing on family needs and requests |
Lack of motivation and fatigue of staff members | Adequate staff knowledge regarding opening benefits | |
Fear of other opportunistic infections brought by families | Literature evidence demonstrating this is not an issue | |
Concern of legal consequences in case of visitors’ infection | Informed consent gaining prior to visit | |
Logistical | Shortage of PPE | If persisting, visits are NOT permitted |
Limited staff availability, time constraints | Extra staff, skilled volunteers | |
Lack of protocols/rules | Drafting of hospital/regional shared protocols | |
Suboptimal/inadequate space due to surge of ICU admission | Temporary restriction on opening hours and number of visitors |