The family support group.

This article was written as an informative guide for health care professionals. It offers a comprehensive view of the implementation of a special program designed for families and/or friends only--known as "The Family Support Group". Initiated in a Long Term Care Facility the author provides a descriptive analysis for identifying the needs of the residents' families and/or friends. The rationale leading to the initial development of the group and the special mechanisms it provides as a quality assurance measure are explored. It is the writer's hope that others will be able to incorporate this idea to their facilities regardless of whether it is long term or an acute care setting.