Comparison of Open Visiting and Restricted Visiting in ICU Chronic Critical Patients: Effects on Negative Emotions and Delirium.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effects of open visiting versus restricted visiting on negative emotions and delirium in ICU chronic critical patients.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 264 chronic critical patients admitted to a tertiary hospital ICU between January 2025 and January 2026. Patients were divided into a restricted visiting control group (n=132) and an open visiting study group (n=132) based on the implementation of open visiting in December 2025. The open group received 24-hour access, while the control group received 1 hour daily. Clinical outcomes, psychological status, and delirium incidence were compared.

RESULTS

The study group had significantly shorter mechanical ventilation time (15.44±1.28 vs. 18.88±3.47 days), ICU stay (12.17±3.33 vs. 15.91±3.78 days), and total hospital stay (20.22±3.16 vs. 25.11±5.11 days) compared to the control group (all P<0.05). Treatment compliance was higher in the study group (89.39% vs. 75.45%, P<0.05). At discharge, the study group showed lower HADS scores (11.22±1.96 vs. 14.78±2.25 points), as well as lower family state anxiety (44.23±2.17 vs. 56.89±2.88) and trait anxiety scores (44.18±1.89 vs. 57.54±3.11) (all P<0.05). Delirium incidence was significantly reduced in the study group (11.36% vs. 25.76%, P<0.05). No significant difference in ICU air quality was observed between groups (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

Open visiting mode is superior to restricted visiting in improving psychological outcomes, reducing delirium, and enhancing clinical recovery in ICU chronic critical patients, supporting its clinical promotion.