The Role of Nurses in Video-Based Communication to Reduce Loneliness in Intensive Care Unit Patients

This study investigates the effectiveness of video-based communication in reducing loneliness among patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Loneliness is a common psychosocial issue in ICU patients, caused by physical isolation, limited visitation policies, and minimal social interaction. It is associated with increased stress, potential suppression of immune response, and extended hospitalization. The intervention provides a practical approach by enabling virtual interaction with family members, allowing emotional connection despite physical distance.

The study uses a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test and post-test control group. A total of 36 patients are recruited from Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital in Bandung and randomly assigned to either an intervention or control group. The intervention group receives structured video-based communication using WhatsApp for three consecutive days, with each session lasting between 5 and 20 minutes. The control group receives standard ICU care without the additional communication support. The De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale (DJGLS) is used to assess emotional and social loneliness levels before and after the intervention.

Nurses act as primary facilitators in the intervention. Their responsibilities include ensuring clinical stability, setting up the communication devices, emotionally supporting patients during the sessions, monitoring patient responses, documenting the process, and coordinating communication with family members.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU)
• Patients aged over 18 years with a minimum of 72 hours of care in the ICU
• Patients who are able to understand and communicate in the Indonesian language

Exclusion criteria

• Patients with medical conditions such as decreased consciousness, total blindness, or severe neurological disorders
• Patients with a history of psychiatric disorders

Drop Out:

• Patients who are discharged from the ICU of Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital during the study period will be considered drop-outs
• Patients whose health deteriorates to the extent that they are unable to continue participation in the study
• Patients who die during the study period
• Patients who are transferred from the ICU to general inpatient wards