An intervention study to improve the transfer of ICU patients to the ward - evaluation by family members

This study supports the introduction of a two-tiered approach to sharing information with family members prior to transfer. The face-to-face communication and individualised brochure for the family contributed significantly to families' satisfaction, preparation and communication about patient transfer and is thus recommended. Further research to replicate and extend this study is recommended with patients and families transferred from ICU for palliative care requiring a specific intervention to support them prior to transfer.