SOCIAL SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES OF PATIENTS WITH PROLONGED ICU ADMISSION: CHALLENGES, NEEDS, AND INTERVENTION STRATEGIES

Abstract

This study aims to analyze social support for families of patients in prolonged ICU hospitalization, identifying their challenges, needs, and intervention strategies. The methodology employed consists of a systematic literature review conducted across major academic databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, and Google Scholar, using keywords related to the topic. Peer-reviewed articles published in the last 10 years, addressing social support in the ICU context, were included. After selecting the studies, a qualitative analysis was performed to identify the main emerging themes, such as social support strategies, emotional needs of families, challenges faced during prolonged hospitalization, and the psychological impacts of this experience. The quality assessment of the studies included an analysis of methodological robustness, clarity in sample definitions, and the depth of interventions. The key findings indicate that families of critically ill patients face high levels of stress, anxiety, and psychological suffering, necessitating adequate social support to mitigate these impacts. Strategies such as emotional support, clear communication, and interdisciplinary care were highlighted as effective. The review also revealed gaps in the literature, particularly regarding the long-term effectiveness of interventions and the impact of communication technologies. The final considerations emphasize the importance of humanized practices and the integrated role of the multiprofessional team in providing effective social support to families, as well as suggesting further research on innovative interventions and technologies in social support.