Efficacy of a Communication Toolkit to Optimize Palliative Care Communication in the Surgical Intensive Unit

Data demonstrates patients benefit from the experience of specialty palliative care providers for advance care planning and prioritizing quality of life, regardless of diagnosis or stage of illness. Despite these benefits, many intensive care units (ICUs) show low utilization of palliative care. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of a bedside communication toolkit to improve communication between family members and caregivers of surgical ICU patients and the ICU team, particularly in the context of medical updates and decision-making. A pilot bedside communication tool was completed by fifty family members of trauma and emergency general surgery (EGS) patients. Participants then completed a survey to provide feedback on the toolkit.
The majority of family members felt the toolkit helped them to formulate questions for the team and agreed they were more informed as a result of the toolkit. The majority disagreed the toolkit was emotionally upsetting to read through. The perceived benefit by family members/decision makers of surgical ICU patients offers many opportunities for further investigation and integration of the toolkit into practice in the ICU and beyond. A communication toolkit may improve communication between patient providers and family members, particularly in key medical decision-making discussions.
Related content
-
Patient Family & Community Engagement
A case study on the impact of an adapted community jury in shaping the Nutrition Standards for hospital menus in New South Wales Australia
Community juries are a form of deliberative democracy and can engage community groups in decision-making about healthcare and service delivery issues and priorities. They can provide insights and value-based perspectives from community groups and are particularly important in resolving perennial and complex system challenges. One such challenge is nutrition in hospitals–where there is a need
Learn more -
Patient Family & Community Engagement
Cancer Partnerships Hub (CPH) Model: Implementing an Organizational Innovation to Enhance Engagement of Patient-Partner in Cancer Care Services
Patient partnership is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of effective care, with healthcare professionals recognizing the immense value of collaboration. This case study delves into the innovative Cancer Partnership Hub (CPH) model implemented at the Integrated University Health and Social Services Center of East Montreal Island (CIUSSS-EMTL) in Quebec, Canada. The CPH model exemplifies the integration
Learn more -
Patient Family & Community Engagement
PX Chat on PFA/PFACS: Revitalizing/Rebuilding (October 1, 2025)
12pm ET / 11am CT / 10am MT / 9am PT – Join The Beryl Institute community for an opportunity to connect with your peers on the support and resources needed to address efforts around revitalizing and rebuilding PFAs and PFACs in their organizations. Breakout discussion groups allow you to share your challenges, celebrate your
Learn more