Do Hospital Visitors Impact Patient Outcomes? Clinical Correlation

Policy briefs on improved visitation in the ICUStudent’s name Institution Professor’s name Date Policy briefs on improved visitation in the ICUExecutive summaryThe COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for restricted hospital visitation policies, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs). It has resulted in a significant emotional toll on both patients and their families, particularly in ICUs, where critically ill patients require round-the-clock care. Restrictions on visitation policies have been even more severe during the pandemic, with many hospitals prohibiting visitors altogether to prevent the spread of the virus. Studies have shown that increased visitation time can help avoid ICU delirium, reduce anxiety, decrease irritability, and eliminate patient loneliness. The proposed policy recommendations are to implement a flexible visitation policy that allows families to spend a reasonable amount of time with their loved ones in the ICU, based on evidence-based practice and supported by staff training and guidelines. It should involve stakeholders, medical professionals, patient representatives, and family members and establish parameters for visitor hours, the number of visitors allowed, and the conditions under which visitors may be prohibited. Alternatives to the proposed policy include no visitation and limited visitation policies, which can help prevent