Family-Led Coaching of Patients During Weaning From Sedation and Mechanical Ventilation in the ICU

BACKGROUND: ICU patients are weaned from sedation and mechanical ventilation through spontaneous awakening trials (SATs) and spontaneous breathing trials (SBTs). Weaning can be distressing for patients and their families. Family-led coaching could reassure patients and reduce stress for families by engaging them in patient care. This study developed and piloted a family-led coaching tool to support patients undergoing SATs/SBTs.

METHODS: Patient and family member dyads were recruited from 2 medical-surgical ICUs in Calgary, Canada (February 3–August 1, 2023). Surveys were administered to collect family (1) demographics, (2) anxiety and satisfaction with ICU care, (3) feedback on the tool, and (4) attitudes about family presence during SATs/SBTs (also collected from clinicians). Tool feasibility was determined by calculating the proportions of (1) eligible patients who were recommended for participation in the study by clinicians and (2) families approached who consented to participate in the study.

RESULTS: One thousand one hundred fifty patients were admitted to the study ICUs during the study period of which 819 received mechanical ventilation, and 42 were recommended by bedside clinicians for participation in the study. Twenty-five dyads were approached, 21 dyads consented to participate, and one withdrew consent before data collection. Of the enrolled families, 12 (60%) reported the coaching tool to be useful, and 5 (25%) recommended minor suggestions such as “shortening” the tool. Fourteen (70%) families reported positive experiences (through open-ended feedback) with being present for the SAT/SBT. State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (Y1) scores (scale range 20–80 points) significantly decreased in families from the first (pre coaching) to the second (post coaching) measures (mean decrease 8.2 points, SD 10.3, P = .001). All clinicians indicated they were comfortable with family presence and/or coaching during SATs/SBTs.

CONCLUSION: Family-led coaching of patients during SATs/SBTs appears to be feasible, favorably perceived by families and clinicians, and potentially associated with lower family anxiety.