Results
I Medical, surgical and trauma histories were obtained from the patients, whose ages ranged from 20 to 80 years. 2 The majority of patients spent at least a week both on the ventilator and in the intensive care unit (65 and 68%, respectively).
3 Patients' memories of specific aspects of their experience were varied (see Table l).
4 The most distressing memories were of tubes and pain. The least distressing memories were of constant
Table I Patients' memories Of specific aspects Of their experience
5 Recommended improvements suggested by the patient included:
• something to stop patients sliding down beds,
• words of comfort,
• chair for visitors on the same level as the patients,
• improved interpersonal skills of the medical staff,
• removal of metal screens.
Discussion
Most of the patients in the study were able to recall significant events during ventilation, although memories were generally vague. Tubes were found to be the most dis-tressing, but nursing care helped to ease this. The majority (770/0) felt happy with their care and some (27%) took this opportunity to express their gratitude. Vague memories could be partly attributed to advancements in drug therapy. This provides scope for further research.
Limitations
Time was limited, as only 6 months were allocated for the study as part of the ENB 100 course. The use of the data collected was also limited, as memories were generally vague and some of the data was collected a considerable time after the period Of hospitalization. However, the study was useful in explaining unknown territory and some rec-ommendations for practice are offered.
Recommendations for practice
I Familiarize the patient with the surroundings.
2 Allow completion of sleep cycles at night.
3 Provide meaningful and varied stimuli.
4 Remove noxious stimuli - minimize buzzers and alarms.
5 Improve communication skills - non-verbal messages, give slow, simple explainations. 6 Allay patient fears.