In a bustling ICU, patients on ventilators often face a scary and confusing condition called delirium. This happens to a lot of them, making them feel upset and disoriented. But what if a simple recording of a loved one's voice could help?

Researchers tested this idea. They took 178 patients and split them into two groups. One group listened to short, recorded messages from family members. These messages reminded the patients where they were, why they were there, and that they were being cared for. The messages played every hour during the day.

The results were promising. Patients who heard these messages had more days without delirium. The more they heard the messages, the better they did. This is a big deal because it's a cheap and easy way to help patients without using drugs.

But why does this work? Being in the ICU is scary and confusing. Hearing a familiar voice can make patients feel safer and more connected to their loved ones, even when they can't be there in person. It's like a virtual hug from home.

The study happened in Florida over a few years, with a short break during the COVID-19 pandemic. It shows that even small things, like a recorded message, can make a big difference in a patient's recovery.

FAMILY RECORDINGS

A Familiar Voice Can Calm ICU Patients

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