Enhancing Family Satisfaction in Intensive Care Units Through Structured Nurse–Family Communication: Effects of the COMFORT Model

Abstract

Families of intensive care unit (ICU) patients often experience distress and dissatisfaction with communication. Structured communication frameworks may strengthen family-centered care and improve outcomes. This quasi-experimental, nonrandomized study was conducted in five ICUs across three referral hospitals. Families of patients with reduced consciousness were recruited, with one representative per patient completing questionnaires. In the control group (n = 48), families received routine communication. In the intervention group (n = 48), 10 ICU nurses trained in COMFORT conducted daily 20-min structured sessions for 5 days. Family satisfaction was assessed on Day 5 using the FS-ICU-24, and nurse–family communication quality was measured in the intervention group on Days 1, 3, and 5 with the QUALPAC communication subscale. Families in the intervention group reported significantly higher satisfaction scores, and communication quality improved over time. Implementation of the COMFORT model enhanced family satisfaction and strengthened nurse–family communication in ICUs.