Experiences of long-distance visitors to intensive care units at a regional major trauma centre in the United Kingdom: A cross-sectional survey

This study aimed to investigate the experiences of long-distance visitors of major trauma patients admitted to intensive care units at a regional major trauma centre. Postal survey. Survey participants (n = 103) at a regional major trauma centre in England, United Kingdom, were identified from hospital records. Included were adult visitors (next of kin) of major trauma patients admitted to intensive care at the study site between January 2016 and July 2018, with ordinary residence located more than one hour’s drive from the major trauma centre. Response rate was 45.6%. Median (range) driving distance between respondents’ residence and the major trauma centre was 57.8 km (28.8–331.5). Median (range) number of days respondents visited at the major trauma centre was 18 (1–200). The quality of care at the centre was rated highly. Visitors described their often-challenging circumstances, negotiating the emotional, psychological, physical and financial impact of the situation. Suggested areas for improvement included car parking, signposting on and around the site, information provision, waiting areas and accommodation at or nearby the major trauma centre. This study has described experiences of long-distance visitors at one regional major trauma centre in England and identified opportunities to ameliorate visitors’ stress points locally. Replication at other regional centres may be warranted.