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The relationship of informational support and anxiety among family members of patients admitted to the intensive care unit
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Zahra Hoseini1   , Hanieh Gholamnejad2 , Morteza Mohammadzadeh *3 |
1- in Critical Care Nursing, Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences,, Tehran, Iran
2- Medical-Surgical Department, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
3- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Tehran, Iran |
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Abstract: (28 Views) |
Abstract
Aim. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship of informational support and anxiety among family members of patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) in selected educational and medical centers in Hamadan city, Iran, in 2024.
Background. Families of ICU patients frequently experience high levels of anxiety, which may lead to physical and psychological complications. Research indicates that one of the most significant factors contributing to anxiety among family members is a lack of information and familiarity with the ICU environment.
Method. This was a descriptive-correlational study. A total of 191 family members of ICU patients in selected educational and medical centers in Hamadan were recruited using a convenience sampling method, based on predefined inclusion criteria. Data collection tools included a demographic information questionnaire, the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Informational Support questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16, applying both descriptive and inferential statistics.
Findings. The findings indicated that the mean anxiety score of participants was 45.7±6.62, with the majority falling within the moderate anxiety range. The mean score of informational support was 46.18±9.78. Pearson correlation test showed a statistically significant positive relationship between the level of informational support and anxiety (r=0.29, P=0.006). One-way ANOVA revealed a statistically significant association between education level and anxiety among family members (F=4.222, P=0.006). Furthermore, informational support was significantly associated with education level and employment status. No statistically significant associations were found between other demographic variables and either anxiety or informational support.
Conclusion. Anxiety among family members of ICU patients is common and typically of moderate severity. Contributing factors include the stressful environment, lack of awareness about the patient's condition, and educational background. Contrary to expectations, increased informational support from healthcare staff did not reduce anxiety and in some cases appeared to increase it, potentially due to the manner of information delivery and the psychological state of family members. These findings highlight the importance of considering demographic characteristics when designing psychological and informational interventions. Recommended strategies include open visitation, education, family involvement, and the presence of a psychologist.
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| Keywords: Intensive care units, Informational support, Anxiety, Family member |
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Full-Text [PDF 893 kb]
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: Research |
Subject:
Family-centered care
Received: 2026/05/26 | Accepted: 2024/03/20 | Published: 2026/05/26 | ePublished: 2026/05/26
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