Enhancing Emotional Support in Critical Care Through Digital Family Interaction

Abstract

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients often experience heightened emotional distress due to isolation and restricted family access, making digital family interaction a promising solution to bridge these emotional gaps. This study examined the perceived impact of digital family interaction on emotional support in ICU settings from the perspectives of patients, families, healthcare providers, and administrators. Employing a descriptive-quantitative correlational design, the research was conducted in selected hospitals in Tarlac City, involving 30 ICU patients, 30 family members, 20 healthcare staff, and 10 administrators selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using validated questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation at a significance level of p < 0.05. Findings revealed unanimous agreement among patients and families that digital interaction reduced anxiety, loneliness, and fear while enhancing motivation and connectedness (mean = 5.00). Healthcare providers (mean = 4.88) and administrators (mean = 4.95) strongly affirmed its benefits. While patient demographics showed no significant association with perceived emotional benefit, staff position (p = 0.035), years of experience (p = 0.029), and administrators’ leadership roles (p = 0.015) were significantly correlated with perceptions. The study concludes that digital family interaction is universally beneficial in ICU care and recommends its institutionalization through structured protocols and leadership-driven policies.