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Taking care of a patient that is critically ill is a time of intensive and focused care on the part of a nurse. However, the immediate family should always be considered as part of this care.

A patient who is critically ill is in most situations a part of a unit that is called the family. In some situations it can be a significant other or extended family. They are what makes this patient whole. They should be respected and cared for as such.

From the onset of the critical event that has occurred , it is the family that has the most invested in the patient's recovery . For the patient, it is the family that matters most to them. There is a balance in communication that is essential to their wellness as a whole.

During the acute phase of illness. The patient needs priority focus to stabilize their condition. But the nurse should make an initial contact with the family and acknowledge them with support and a promise to keep them updated daily or as needed. The nurse should always identify his or herself , by giving them their name . They can then make a connection to the nurse, when communicating through out the critical phase of the patients illness.

There are some situations that are difficult to manage. Each patient and family is unique and perhaps with different needs to be met. It is important for the nurse to establish rapport and be flexible, yet not intruded upon, as to interfere with the care of a patient.

A nurse who is experienced can quickly determine the needs of the patient and the family. Family members often feel comforted by their physical presence at the patients bedside. Their need to touch or be close to the critically ill patient is sometimes comforting to both, and should be supported when possible.

On the rare occasion when a situation seems out of control. Where family is traumatized and emotionally out of control. Some additional support from other staff members in a private area may be helpful. This will allow them to be comforted in private, and perhaps nourished with juices and snacks, until their information needs are met and they regain composure.

The demands at the bedside of the critically ill requires that the care is prioritized. Life threatening conditions are addressed first . Informing the family of clinical changes both positive and negative are important. Sharing with the family the details , in some cases will help the family to understand the progress toward recovery or decline.

For the critically ill patient who does not recover , the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the family has during this critical time, evolved . With trust in place. This will be beneficial for the support for the family.

The experiences that families have within their health care facilities, is well remembered . They are carried out into each community. It is ongoing , and represents the best or the worst care that we as professionals have given. The family of a critically ill patient must always know and never doubt , that we are there for them too.

Learn more about this author, Olivia Bredbenner.
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