Abstract

Aim.The aim of this study was to review the physical and social environment monitoring of the intensive care unit and examine how it affects the physiological status of the patient and family needs.

Background.Knowledge and skill in providing nursing care are the main factors affecting the recovery of patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). While a nurse or nursing unit can possess perfect critical care skills and knowledge, those are not the only factors that influence patient recovery. Including nursing skills in ICU is environmental monitoring and creating a pleasant environment with minimal stress. This monitoring includes control of light, sound, color, landscape, music and social support.

Method.This review was conducted by searching electronic databases and hand searching of library resources. Finding articles and research projects was conducted by using keywords on the internet and relevant sites.

Findings.Improvement of the environment in which care is provided not only helps in the healing process for patients, but also increases employee satisfaction and families affected. Environmental monitoring reduces stressful factors from ICU to rectify the effects of these wards for patients and also, reduces staff stress.

Conclusion.The use of research findings is an important part of improving the quality of care for patients in intensive care units and their families. The ICU setting has the potential to afford patients the best possible opportunity to heal if key stress-reducing elements are incorporated into its physical design. Such elements may reduce noise, offer privacy, add full-spectrum lighting, and assimilate color. As well as considering the physical design, a critical program that integrates the family and other healing measures is essential to the milieu of a healing environment.