Determining ICU visiting hours.

Visiting hours play an integral role in the intensive care unit (ICU) for both patients and health care providers. Family members offer support and comfort to patients during critical illnesses. Nurses, however, often view visiting hours as intrusive and time consuming. The issue of restricted versus open visiting hours continues in many ICUs, and the advantages and disadvantages of both types of visitation must be weighed before selecting the visiting hours appropriate for the institution.