The effect of critical care hospitalization on family members: Stress and responses

Family members of intensive care patients may experience stressors that threaten both personal health and family integrity. This study found that family members endure multiple concurrent stressors and exhibit numerous behavioral responses, including changes in eating, sleeping, activity, and family roles and responsibilities. Nurses can promote family integrity with interventions that address these behavioral changes and promote normal behavior patterns. [Dimens Crit Care Nurs 2000:19(4):40-9]