This is an exploratory study based on qualitative approach that aimed to collectively construct an instrument to collect data for patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), based on the Theory of Basic Human Needs (NHB). Data collection was through a focus group with four nurses from the ICU and four residents from the Nursing-Health Integrated Residency (RIS) program in seven meetings in 2009. The discussions produced in each session were analyzed as recommended by Horta. The instrument was divided into seven groups and 17 subgroups of needs. After testing and suggestions from participants, we elaborated the final version of the instrument and a guidance manual for completing it, according to the need expressed by the group. Validation of the instrument and the manual and inclusion of teaching of the nursing process in the RIS activity program are suggested.
Nursing process; Data collection; Intensive Care Units; Health education