What does ASPAN say about families visiting in PACU?
ASPAN has taken the position to support family visits in PACU. Guidelines certainly need to be in place to assist with incorporating family visits in the Phase I level of care. There is a Position Statement included in the 2006-2008 Standards of Perianesthesia Nursing Practice that is available on the ASPAN Home page. It can be found under Clinical Practice and is titled A Position Statement on Visitation in Phase I Level of Care. In units that have adopted family visitation practices the results have been positive for all. It is reassuring to family members to see their loved ones and patients also find it comforting. This practice requires education for the family and measures taken to provide patient confidentiality and privacy.
