Exploring critically ill patients’ functional recovery through family partnerships: A descriptive qualitative study

Abstract

BackgroundEarly mobilisation interventions play a role in preventing intensive care unit–acquired weakness in critically ill patients and may contribute to improved recovery. Patient-and-family-centred care includes collaborative partnerships between healthcare professionals and families and is a potential strategy to promote early mobilisation in critical care; however, we currently do not know family member preferences for partnering and involvement in early mobilisation interventions. ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to explore family member perspectives on the acceptability and feasibility of partnering with healthcare professionals in early mobilisation interventions for adult critically ill patients. MethodsA descriptive qualitative design. Semistructured interviews were conducted with family members of adult critically ill patients admitted to an intensive care unit. Data were collected through individual audio-recorded interviews. Interview data were analysed using the six phases of thematic analysis described by Braun and Clark. This study is reported following the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines. ResultsMost family members of critically ill patients found the idea of partnering with healthcare professionals in early mobilisation interventions acceptable and feasible, although none had ever considered a partnership before. Participants thought their involvement in early mobilisation would have a positive impact on both the patient's and their own wellbeing. Themes uncovered showed that understanding family-member readiness and their need to feel welcome and included in the unfamiliar critical care environment are required before family member and healthcare professional partnerships in early mobilisation interventions can be enacted. ConclusionsFamily members found partnering with healthcare professionals in early mobilisation interventions acceptable and feasible to enact, but implementation is influenced by their readiness and sense of belonging.