Critical Care Scenarios Lightning rounds #34: … When?
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Nov 22, 2023 The podcast discusses when and how to involve family members in updates about a patient's condition, the importance of accurate information and thoughtful delivery. It also explores when to consult different specialties in the hospital, recognizing the need for specialist consultations, curbsiding in healthcare systems, the importance of effective communication in critical care, and the complexity of critical care scenarios.
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Call Families When It’s Actionable
- Call family as soon as it is practical, not reflexively the moment something changes.
- Wait until you can give meaningful context unless the situation is immediately time-sensitive.
Ease People Into Bad News
- Ease families into bad news to reduce shock and improve understanding of trajectory.
- Use incremental updates so consequences feel less sudden and more anticipated.
Focus Family Updates On Prognosis
- Prioritize what families need to know: prognosis and overall situation rather than lab minutiae.
- Avoid overwhelming them with technical details that won't change decisions.