RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Truth-telling is an important step toward reducing the cognitive gap between physicians and patients as well as reducing the psychological pressures applied to physicians by family members. There is a lack of research on the truth-telling experience and needs in the intensive care unit from the perspective of patient family members. PURPOSE: This study is designed to explore the experiences and needs of families in the intensive care unit. METHODS: A descriptive phenomenology method was used in this study. In-depth interviews were conducted with five participants who had family members assessed with acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II scores ≥ 20. Data were analyzed using Giorgi's phenomenological methods and Nvivo 11. RESULTS: Four experience themes were examined, including (1) nothing is clear, requires explanation; (2) helpless to find answers, need a nurse to resolve this issue; (3) professional conduct makes us feel helpless, longing for love from the medical team; (4) decisions are very difficult, hoping to get more help. CONCLUSIONS / IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The family members expressed that they were unable to understand the underlying causes of the progression in patient condition because the medical team only presented outcomes to the family and did not discuss related causes. Thus, it is recommended that medical teams learn to recognize the cognitive processes of patient family members and consider their emotions, including their needs and expectations, in order to provide individualized explanations based on a patient's status and progress.