Intensive Care Medicine: Published: 12
September 2023
Purpose
The immediate impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
visiting restrictions for family members has been well-documented. However, the
longer-term trajectory, including mechanisms for support, is less well-known.
To address this knowledge gap, we aimed to explore the post-hospital recovery
trajectory of family members of patients hospitalised with a critical care
COVID-19 admission. We also sought to understand any differences across
international contexts.
Methods
We undertook semi-structured interviews with family members
of patients who had survived a COVID-19 critical care admission. Family members
were recruited from Spain and the United Kingdom (UK) and telephone interviews
were undertaken. Interviews were analysed using a thematic content analysis.
Results
Across the international sites, 19 family members were
interviewed. Four themes were identified: changing relationships and carer
burden; family health and trauma; social support and networks and differences
in lived experience. We found differences in the social support and networks
theme across international contexts, with Spanish participants more frequently
discussing religion as a form of support.
Conclusions
This international qualitative investigation has
demonstrated the challenges which family members of patients hospitalised with
a critical care COVID-19 admission experience following hospital discharge.
Specific support mechanisms which could include peer support networks, should
be implemented for family members to ensure ongoing needs are met.
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