Table 2 Summary of the nine most important family members’ needs (N = 110)

1

To have a specific person to call at the hospital in the absence of family member

2

To be called at home about changes in the patient’s condition

3

To see the patient frequently

4

To have questions answered properly and explanations given in understandable terms

5

To have someone concerned with family members’ worries

6

To know how the patient is being treated

7

To be assured that the best possible care and treatment are being given to the patient

8

To receive information about the patient once per day

9

To know about the type of staff taking care of the patient

10

To talk with the nurse each day