Nurses’ perspectives on the implementation of open visitation of patients admitted in the intensive care unit at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es salaam.

Abstract

xi ABSTRACT Background: Patients and their families often experience anxiety upon ICU admission due to pain and uncertainty. Restrictions on visiting hours exacerbate stress and sadness. Open visitation, allowing longer visiting hours and more access, has been suggested to reduce stress for patients and their families. As healthcare evolves toward patient and family-centered care, the introduction of unrestricted visiting regulations in ICUs becomes a critical consideration. Aim: This study aimed to comprehensively explore nurses’ perspectives on the implementation of open visitation for patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam. Methodology: A descriptive qualitative study design was employed, utilizing focus group discussions for data collection. The study took place in the medical and surgical adult ICUs of Muhimbili National Hospital, Tanzania. The sample size was 22 participants. Discussions were transcribed verbatim from audio recordings; the transcription was then subjected to content analysis with qualitative data analysis software using Qualitative analysis software miner version 15 (QDA). Results: 22 participants, averaging 34 years of age, took part. About 77.3% had over three years of nursing experience, 54.5% worked in the surgical ICU, and 63.6% had over three years of ICU experience. Participants understood the concept of open visitation, generating themes such as understanding, attitudes, impacts, challenges, and recommendations. Conclusion: Nurses appreciate the emotional support and satisfaction open visitation provides to patients and families but have concerns about increased infection risks, disruptions to patient care, and logistical challenges. The results highlight the need to balance the benefits of open visitation with practical considerations to ensure patient care, safety, and efficiency.