Abstract
BackgroundSymptoms of anxiety and depression are common among family members of ICU patients and are culturally dependent. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of symptoms of anxiety and depression and associated factors in family members of ICU patients in two Central European countries.MethodsWe conducted a prospective multicenter study involving 22 ICUs (250 beds) in the Czech and Slovak Republics. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to assess symptoms of anxiety and depression in family members of ICU patients. Family member understanding of the patient’s condition was assessed using a structured interview and a questionnaire was used to assess satisfaction with family member/ICU staff communication.ResultsTwenty two intensive care units (both adult and pediatric) in academic medical centers and community hospitals participated in the study. During a 6 month period, 405 family members of 293 patients were enrolled. We found a high prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms – 78% and 54%, respectively. Information leaflets distributed to family members did not lower incidences of anxiety/depression. Family members with symptoms of depression reported higher levels of satisfaction according to the modified Critical Care Family Needs Inventory. Extended contact between staff and family members was the only related factor associated with anxiety reduction (p = 0.001).ConclusionFamily members of ICU patients in East European countries suffer from symptoms of anxiety and depression. We identified limited family member/ICU staff communication as an important health care professional-related factor associated with a higher incidence of symptoms of anxiety. This factor is potentially amenable to improvement and may serve as a target for proactive intervention proactive intervention.
Highlights
Symptoms of anxiety and depression are common among family members of ICU patients and are culturally dependent
Study setting and study participants We created the DEPRESS study working group for participating in data collection for the DEPRESS study (DEPRession and anxiEty in family memberS of ICU patientS in the Czech and Slovak Republics) which involved total of 22 participating ICUs in 13 university centers and 9 community hospitals
Twentyone family members declined to participate in the study
Summary
Symptoms of anxiety and depression are common among family members of ICU patients and are culturally dependent. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of symptoms of anxiety and depression and associated factors in family members of ICU patients in two Central European countries. In large observational studies conducted in France, for During the second half of the 20th century, for historical reasons, medical facilities and communication skills took different evolutionary paths in West and Central/East European countries. In Central and Eastern countries there was a steady increase in physician paternalism together with a decline in open communication between patients, families and medical staff [7]. Communication skills and interaction patterns between physicians and patients and/or relatives remained poorly analyzed in Central/East European countries and as such, any changes in these areas were difficult to evaluate
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