Family presence during round

It is common in Malaysia that family are required to leave during a teaching/grand round by nurses or doctors for many reasons. Some may say that the presence of family members will significantly prolong the rounds and some are uncomfortable in case that they misinterpret the information discussed among doctors.

Just to be clear, this practice is totally the opposite in certain other places. So obviously, not everybody agrees that doing so may bring more harm than good. We cannot deny that sometimes during rounds, we look for family members to discuss or to inform important things. In paediatric population, this practice is probably a must.

How about teaching for doctors or misconception by family members? Yes, it is possible that the family may ask question that may delay the round, but we know as well that not every family members do that. It is in the minority I would say in Malaysia. Surveys have shown that family members highly appreciate if they are being brought into picture during rounds and between 85-100% wishes to be by the bedside if given the choice. Nurses and doctors - they are not so keen for obvious reason. American College of Critical Care Medicine (ACCM) recommended that family and parents be given opportunity to be present during round.

This article (http://www.atsjournals.org/…/pdf/10.…/AnnalsATS.201301-006PS) discuss the steps for conducting family presence during rounds.