In Six Weeks The World Has Changed: Covid-19-Family-Centered Care In The Intensive Care Unit

Background and problem definition: The admission of patients to an intensive care unit is extremely stressful for relatives during the COVID-19 pandemic, as they are not allowed to visit their family members due to a visitation restriction. Objectives: To describe the experience of relatives during the COVID-19 pandemic and to derive support information for health professionals. Methods: Qualitative analysis of three written testimonies of relatives whose family members were hospitalized with COVID-19 or other disease at intensive care unit. Results: Relatives report the sudden, unexpected occurrence of the disease. "It was there, out of nowhere, hits the heart of life, doesn't just go away, does what it wants. It is an unknown virus that we have to get to know very closely." The ban on visiting was harsh, it made her faint. The first visit was an indescribable joy. Knowing how the family member was and that the health care professionals were taking professional and empathetic care of the sick person were the only things the relatives could hold on to. Discussion: Relatives were reassured when they experienced a high level of commitment on the part of health professionals and received repeated comprehensible information by phone. Limitations and transfer: Restrictions on visits depend on national legislation. Measures such as video calls can also be useful outside of a pandemic to build relationships with relatives.