THE ROLE OF VIRTUAL VISITS IN ALLEVIATING PSYCHOLOGICAL STRESS AMONG CRITICAL CARE UNIT PATIENTS: A REVIEW PAPER

Abstract

Background:

Stress in critical care units (CCUs) can be overwhelming, especially when patients' coping mechanisms are overwhelmed by the demands of their condition. This heightened stress exacerbates psychological and physiological challenges. Virtual visits have emerged as a promising intervention, alleviating stress by facilitating emotional connections, offering comfort, and maintaining family support.

Method:

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across several electronic academic databases, including Google Scholar, Academia, and Semantic Scholar. Boolean operators and relevant keywords were employed to identify relevant articles. Inclusion criteria included publications from the past five years, studies focused on the research objectives, and articles written in English. The initial search yielded 42,400 records. After a screening process based on title, abstract, and relevance, 16 full-text articles from various countries were selected for the final review.

Result:

The review highlights that virtual visit interventions significantly reduce stress in CCU patients. Virtual communication tools, such as video calls, help alleviate isolation and anxiety by enabling patients to connect with their families. These visits improve patient satisfaction, foster emotional stability, and provide comfort, enhancing overall emotional well-being during prolonged hospital stays. The findings suggest that virtual visits play a vital role in supporting patients' mental health in critical care settings.

Conclusion:

The evidence suggests that virtual visits can play a critical role in alleviating stress and improving the psychological health of CCU patients. Given the positive outcomes, integrating virtual visits into routine practice could significantly enhance patient care in critical care settings.