Effectiveness of Communication Through Information Technologies with Family Members of Patients in Intensive Care Units
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63688/hk2tx342Keywords:
digital communication, family satisfaction, intensive care, critically ill patients, nursingAbstract
The hospitalization of critically ill patients in intensive care units causes emotional distress among family members, especially when visitation restrictions and difficulties interacting with the healthcare team are present. In this context, digital communication strategies have been used as tools to maintain family bonds, support continuity of information, and improve the care experience. The objective of this systematic review was to analyze the available scientific evidence on the effectiveness of digital communication in family satisfaction among critically ill patients hospitalized in intensive care units. The literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, and CINAHL, considering publications from 2015 to 2025. Seventeen primary quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies related to digital communication, remote communication, video calls, virtual visits, and family experience in intensive care were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. The findings suggest favorable effects on family satisfaction, emotional support, anxiety reduction, and the perception of humanized care. However, limitations associated with technological barriers, digital literacy, connectivity, and the lack of institutional protocols were identified. It is concluded that digital communication constitutes a potentially favorable strategy to strengthen family satisfaction in intensive care units, provided that it is implemented with adequate resources, professional training, and ethical guidelines oriented toward humanized care.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Michelle Estefanía Chuya Vélez, Deisy Gisell Palma Zambrano, Jenny Alexandra Cevallos Benavides (Autor/a)
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