The critical care nurses were the instrument for transformation to occur among patients
and family members during critical illness in the ICU, through the nursing care they provided
and by promoting adaptation. Nurses believed that human systems function in a holistic
manner with each aspect related to and affected by the other. Nurses also were aware that
they are part of the critically ill patient’s environment. The interaction of this human adaptive
system and the environment (i.e. nurse, patients, family members, and the healthcare team
in the ICU) was a reflection of adaptation towards the goal of becoming integrated and
whole. Nurses accepted and recognised the importance of family members, significant others,
and support systems to the critically ill patients. They fostered interdependence among the
patients and family members. They also allowed them to be active participants in the provision
of care and supported them during this time of crisis to the family. During this process, the
nurses themselves experienced transformation.