Impact of Visitor Restrictions on Patient and Family Perceptions of Care in Canadian ICUs During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Families play essential roles in the intensive care unit (ICU), yet COVID-19 visitor restrictions disrupted patient- and family-centred care (PFCC). This study explored the impact of these restrictions and identified strategies to maintain PFCC when families cannot be physically present in the ICU. We conducted a qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews with patients and loved ones who experienced ICU visitor restrictions during the pandemic. Participants were recruited from across Canada between January 2021 and April 2022. Transcripts were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Sixteen participants (11 loved ones and 5 patients) described significant challenges to PFCC. We identified four themes: 1) circumstances and context shaped lived experiences of visitor restrictions; 2) visitor restrictions disrupted information flow; 3) physical separation hindered loved ones’ roles as care partners; and 4) creative solutions could mitigate negative impacts. Restricted visitation policies significantly affected communication, advocacy, and emotional support. Participant-generated solutions—human-centered, technological, and informational—offer actionable strategies to preserve PFCC during future crises or when bedside presence is limited.