Evaluation of visitation policies and family information practices in pediatric intensive care units in Turkey: a national survey.

Family-centered care, including open visitation and effective communication, is increasingly recognized as essential in pediatric intensive care. Despite growing international evidence supporting open visitation policies and family involvement, significant variation exists in implementation across different healthcare systems and cultural contexts. This study aimed to evaluate the current visitation policies and family information practices in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) in Turkey. A web-based survey was conducted among 59 PICUs across Turkey, focusing on ICU characteristics, visitation policies, and the provision of family information. The survey was distributed through the Turkish Pediatric Intensive Care Society network, and responses were obtained from one designated representative per unit. The majority of the units (78%) allowed a parent to remain at the bedside for 24 h for non-intubated patients, adopting family-centered care. However, 91.5% of the units had at least one restrictive visitation policy. Sibling visitation was prohibited in 67.8% of units. Visitation restrictions were eased under certain circumstances, such as after a diagnosis of brain death (83.1%) or in end-stage illness (76.3%). Family information was provided regularly by physicians in 57.6% of the units, and 49.2% had a dedicated family meeting room. Statistically significant differences were observed between isolation room-only units and mixed-room units regarding 24-h bedside family presence, visit duration, and the location of family information provision (p = 0.012, p = 0.031, p = 0.023, respectively). None of the units permitted family presence during invasive procedures or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

conclusionWhile a substantial proportion of Turkish PICUs allow 24-h family presence for non-intubated patients, restrictive policies remain common for visitors and siblings. The prohibition on family presence during procedures represents an important gap in the implementation of family-centered care. These findings highlight opportunities for policy development and staff education. WHAT IS KNOWN: • Restrictive visitation policies in pediatric ICUs increase family stress and may prolong patient recovery. • Family-centered care with 24-hour family presence improves patient and family outcomes. • Visitation and family information practices vary widely between countries and institutions. WHAT IS NEW: • This is the first national survey evaluating visitation policies and family information practices in Turkish pediatric ICUs. • Most Turkish PICUs allow 24-hour family presence but maintain some visitation restrictions. • Significant differences exist between isolation-room-only and mixed-room units regarding visitation and family information provision.