A mixed-method study to develop and evaluate a structured therapeutic communication module on psychological distress and perceived needs among caregivers of critically ill patients in Critical Care Units

Aims and objectives

To develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a structured therapeutic communication module on psychological distress and perceived needs among caregivers of critically ill patients.

Background

Caregivers of critically ill patients experience intense psychological distress, and their needs often go unexpressed or unidentified. Structured therapeutic communication enables nurses to explore and fulfill these needs.

Method

A mixed-method study was conducted among 30 caregivers of critically ill patients. During phase one, a qualitative interview was conducted, and a structured therapeutic communication module was developed based on Hildegard Peplau's Interpersonal Relations Theory. In the second phase, one group pre-test and post-test design was adopted. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and a Semi-structured interview schedule were used to assess psychological distress and perceived needs, respectively.

Results

Half of (50 %) the caregivers reported a high level of anxiety before intervention, with a mean of 11.30 (SD: 4.0), and 66.7 % of them had a high level of depression, with a mean of 12.03 (SD: 0.08). There was a statistically significant difference in anxiety (CI: 0.451–2.016) and depression (CI: 0.261–1.538) before and after the intervention. The qualitative analysis revealed unmet needs perceived by caregivers.

Conclusion

Using a structured therapeutic communication module helps nurses to alleviate the psychological distress experienced by caregivers of CCU patients.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses need to be sensitive to the unexpressed needs of caregivers of critically ill patients. The structured therapeutic communication modules can be integrated into routine nursing care practice to ensure family-centered care.