Revisión de los estudios sobre los profesionales de enfermería de las Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos de España.

Abstract

In order to analyse the scientific output of ICU nurses in Spain, a literature review of articles was carried out in which ICU nurses were the subject under study 76 articles were analyzed, were 64% written by ICU nurses and 44% were published in Enfermeria Intensiva. Studies describing the professionals and their work were the most numerous, while those that focused on ethical and computer issues were the most scant. Although between 39%-61% of nurses said they had chosen ICU voluntarily, most of the nurses (55%-82%) would not leave for another service. Nurses stated that their work was stressful because of the state of patients and the work environment. Two works found high burnout levels in nurses and nurses’ assistants and in another seven these were repored as middle or low. After modifying the policy of family visits, nurses affirm that the family gave emotional support to the patient, minimised boredom and increased the desire of live. Several studies concluded that it was necessary specific training to confront death and to give support to the patient and the family. 94% of nurses thought the patient and the family should be kept informed regarding the former’s situation and possibilities and 98% that the family should receive the same information as the patient. Most of the computer applications incorporated in intensive care units received positive evaluations by users; nurses used Internet to send and receive emails and to seek health information.