“Families are suddenly put in a situation they are unprepared for and are totally overwhelmed. It hits them all at once when a long-standing chronic illness becomes life-threatening or when a loved one falls unexpectedly at home and the injury is mortal”. - ICU Nurse

Being at the bedside of a patient admitted to the ICU is a visceral experience for families. Each new family member who enters the room for the first time can bring another wave of emotion.

Constructing a positive relationship with the family by supporting them in their trauma and grief can facilitate decision-making, enhance family experience, and lead to better

outcomes. There are countless small interventions you can do to support families and make meaningful differences. Your relationships with families may be short-term, but your efforts can have a long-lasting impact.

 

Our words and actions can have a big impact on families

By completing this module, you will:

• Learn ways to prepare the families for possible death and the removal of life support.
• Discover ways to minimize vicarious trauma for families when death occurs.
• Examine strategies for interacting with family members when difficulties arise.
• Explore strategies for follow-up after death.