The nearest and dearest: a lifeline for ICU patients.

This study was designed to examine, describe and elucidate patients' experiences of the presence and visits of the nearest and their participation in the care process during their stay in the ICU. Five patients, three men and two women, were interviewed for about one hour each. A hermeneutic approach was used when the texts from the interviews were interpreted and analysed. The theoretical frame of interpretation was based on Tillich's theory concerning 'The courage to be' and Eriksson's theory on 'Suffering'. It was found that suffering from severe disease or injury results in not only a threat against the person as an individual, but also against the individual as a part in the world, with consequent feelings of estrangement and the fear of meaninglessness. The threat can, however, be neutralized by the nearests' presence and visits. These represent fellowship, togetherness and participation and thus can help to maintain the patient's identity and individuality. By experiencing this, patients as individuals may be able to affirm themselves and their 'courage to be' will be given strength and support.