[Interventions to enhance the experience of family members and companions during surgical waiting: A systematic review].

Background: Family members and companions play a crucial role in supporting a patient's postoperative recovery, fostering a positive attitude toward the hospital, and promoting overall well-being. This study aimed to identify effective interventions designed to enhance the experience of family members and companions during surgical waiting periods.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search was performed in the PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Cochrane databases for articles published in Spanish or English between January 2013 and December 2023. Data extracted from the studies included: country of origin, publication year, study design, sample size, study objective, characteristics of the interventions, tools used to measure effectiveness, and key findings. Methodological quality was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools.

Results: Eight studies were included, evealingr three main types of interventions: structured communication, telematic communication, and continuous communication. These interventions were heterogeneous in terms of key components, including provider, timing, location, format, frequency, and duration. Not all studies provided detailed information on these elements. Telematic communication, particularly explanatory videos lasting at least 20 minutes in the waiting room, was found to be effective in significantly reducing family anxiety, as measured by the STAI scale.

Conclusions: The results highlight the limited number of interventions designed to improve the experience of families and companions during surgical waiting periods. There is a clear need for standardized interventions and outcome measurement tools to optimize emotional support, ultimately improving the family experience and well-being in this context.