Humanization of care for adult ICU patients: a scoping review protocol.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this review is to review and map data from studies on the humanization of care in intensive care units based on a conceptual framework. INTRODUCTION: The critical context of adult patients in intensive care units directs the focus on clinical medical interventions, drawing attention away from the humanization of care. Rethinking intensive care is imperative and the humanization of care is an absolute priority. Literature on this topic is scattered under umbrella terms such as "patient-centered care" or specific terms referring to target interventions. A scoping review based on a conceptual framework will map the literature on humanization in intensive care units. INCLUSION CRITERIA: The review will consider studies on the humanization of care, or on one of the seven components of the conceptual framework (communication, visiting hours, patients' and health care professionals' well-being, family involvement and satisfaction, post-intensive care unit syndrome, and physical environment) focusing on adult patients in intensive care units. Studies on co-existing states or end-of-life care will be excluded. METHODS: A search of Embase, PubMed, and CINAHL will be conducted to identify relevant studies in English or French on the humanization of care, holistic care, or person-centered care in an adult intensive-care environment. The time period covered will be January 1, 2010 to the present. An iterative team approach will be used to screen and select studies and extract data. Data will be charted according to study design, distribution in time, cultural context, concepts, use of theoretical models, and intervention. The results will be summarized and reported, identifying the implications for policy, practice, and research.

Validity of the Modified Dyspnea Index for the French-Canadian Population.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Multidimensional tools could evaluate the dyspnea of patients with chronic lung disease. The aim was to validate the use of the French-Canadian version of the modified dyspnea index (MDI) among patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and interstitial lung disease (ILD). METHODS: The Spearman test analyzed the convergent validation of the MDI with pulmonary function tests (PFTs), New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification, the Modified Borg Scale, the Veterans Specific Activity Questionnaire (VSAQ), physical capacity, physical activity (Godin-Shephard Leisure-Time Physical Activity Questionnaire [GSLTPAQ]), and quality of life (SF-12). RESULTS: The MDI had a low correlation with PFT and physical activity; a moderate with physical capacity; a high with the physical dimension (SF-12). CONCLUSION: The results support the convergent validation of the MDI French-Canadian version with PAH or ILD.

[Family Health Program: the experience of a multiprofessional team]. / Programa Saúde da Família: a experiência de equipe multiprofissional.

OBJECTIVE: The Family Health Program proposes a new dynamics for the structuring of health service, as well as for its relationship with the community in its different levels of care. The aim of the present study was to analyze the significance of teamwork for professionals working in the Family Health Program. METHODS: The study was carried out in the city of Conchas, Southeastern Brazil, in 2004. We used a qualitative approach based on phenomenology as an attempt to reveal the essence of the reality experienced by eight professionals from two Family Health Program teams. RESULTS: Themes revealed that teamwork is characterized by dedication to daily activities. Interaction among all members is required for integral action, although there are differences in ideology and conduct between professionals. Close contact with families has allowed for more efficient interventions, and integrated work is essential for efficacious, high-quality care. CONCLUSIONS: The phenomenon unveiled gives origin to a new perspective of action for professionals and furthers our understanding of multiprofessional teamwork.