The Benefits and Risks of the Provision of a Hospital-Wide High-Definition Video Conferencing Virtual Visiting Service for Patients and Their Relatives

Background Since the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, virtual visiting (VV) has become important because of visiting restrictions in hospitals. This project aimed to determine the impact of VV on staff and patients' loved ones (visitors). Methodology VV is defined as high-resolution video communication between admitted COVID-19 patients and their loved ones in the presence of a staff member using a healthcare platform. VV was introduced in a 419-bedded hospital in the UK in April 2020. Qualitative data on the VV experience were collected from relatives and staff via an open feedback email address and reflective practice. Data were entered and analyzed in person by two independent assessors. Grounded theory methodology and thematic analysis were used to draw conclusions. Results Between April 16, 2020 and November 30, 2020, 1,009 visits were delivered. There were 138 feedback responses; 108 (78.3%) from relatives and 30 (21.7%) from staff. The amalgamation of data was resolved into five themes: appreciative factors (129, 93.5%), organizational skills (44, 31.9%), palliative care (38, 27.5%), staff communication (14, 10.1%), and VV process issues (11, 7.9%). A total of 131 (94.9%) responses had positive comments (111 from relatives, 20 from staff); negative comments were greater in the staff cohort (23%) than the relative group (4%). Trends included sub-themes in overwhelming emotions, emotional strain for staff members, and difficult situations. Conclusions VV in hospitals is a new and valuable way to connect patients with loved ones with mostly positive consequences. VV also has risks to mental health and well-being, particularly for healthcare workers facilitating the call.