The aim of this study is to explore family members' perceptions of their immediate needs following admission of a relative to a critical care unit in Hong Kong. A convenience sample of 30 family members was drawn from those available during the first 96 hours of hospitalization of their relative. Self-reported questionnaires, consisting of a demographic data sheet, a modified Chinese version of the 45-item Critical Care Family Needs Inventory (CCFNI) and semistructured interviews, are the instruments used to examine family members' perceptions of need importance and to ascertain whether or not these needs are met. Doctors and nurses are identified as the most suitable people to meet most immediate family needs. Conclusions are drawn as to the best focus of nursing interventions in order to provide quality care to patients and families.