Family Visitation in the PACU: An Evidence-Based Practice Project

Purpose: Evidence demonstrates that allowing visitation in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU)leads to decreased anxiety and increased satisfaction. The purpose of this project was to create a visitation policy for families of patients staying overnight in the PACU, which would lead to improved satisfaction with the surgical waiting room experience and decreased family member anxiety. Design: Evidence-based practice project. Methods: Survey data were sent to staff registered nurses to implement a visitation policy. On the basis of the feedback, a visitation policy was implemented. Family satisfaction was measured preimplementation and postimplementation. Findings: Family satisfaction increased from a mean score of 4.5 to 9.6 and 10. Anecdotally, patients and families reported less anxiety after the visit. Conclusions: Family satisfaction can be increased and anxiety decreased by allowing a brief visit in the PACU. Although registered nurses expressed concerns before the change, the new visitation policy was successfully implemented and met with enthusiasm. It continues in practice today.