The Vortex: Families’ Experiences With Death in the Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Uncertainty about the prognosis of the patient, decisions that families make before a terminal condition, what to expect during dying, and the extent of a patient s suffering pervade families' end-of-life experiences in the intensive care unit. Families' information about the patient is often lacking or inadequate. The best antidote for families' uncertainty is effective communication.