CHALLENGES FACED BY NURSING STAFF DURING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF HUMANIZED CARE IN CRITICAL SERVICES

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the challenges faced by nursing staff during the implementation of humanized care in
critical services. Material and Method: A qualitative, descriptive, phenomenological study was conducted in 2024 with a sample of 14 nursing professionals from adult and pediatric intensive care units (ICU) in Ecuadorian hospitals. The sample was selected using convenience sampling until information saturation was reached. A semi-structured interview, validated by a pilot test, was administered and processed using the Colaizzi’s method and the COREQ criteria to guarantee the quality of the analysis. Results:
Six categories were identified: 1) Difficulties in implementing the open-door model in critical areas, 2)
Influence of the open-door model in ICUs, 3) Quality of care in critical care services under the opendoor model, 4) Necessity of the open-door model for emotional well-being, 5) Strategies to humanize care in ICUs, and 6) Development of the model in ICUs. Conclusion: Implementing the open-door model improves the emotional well-being of patients and families but faces structural and organizational barriers. Continuing education and clear protocol design are essential to optimizing care.