Factibilidad de implementación del diario como herramienta de humanización en una unidad de cuidados intensivos

Objective: to assess the feasibility of implementing the diary as a humanization tool at a clinical Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in Catalonia, without previous experience, in terms of acceptance, satisfaction and continuity of the measure by Nursing professionals, patients and relatives.Method: a pilot study conducted during 15 weeks with patients hospitalized >72 hours at the ICU, under sedation and with invasive mechanical ventilation for ≥ 48 hours. There were three stages: 1) Training for Nursing staff, 2) Implementation of the diary, and 3) Evaluation of the perception of the tool by the three groups, with anonymous questionnaires designed ad hoc.Results: a printed diary was designed, and Nursing professionals received seven training sessions previously. Eight diaries were written (one per patient), and photographs were inserted in six of them. Questionnaires were handed out to 35 nurses, nine relatives and six patients. 83% of the nurses considered that the diary could be implemented in the future, 83% of patients enjoyed reading a diary about the day to day of their hospital stay, and it helped 89% of relatives to express their thoughts and emotions. 40% of nurses considered that photographs could be upsetting for patients, while the majority of relatives and patients thought otherwise.Conclusions: the conclusion of this pilot study is that it is feasible to implement the diary at the ICU. All participants considered that this is a tool that humanizes care, and improves communication, understanding and information.