Palliative care in the ICU 2C06

Abstract

This is a review of the role of palliative care with intensive care patients. End-of-life care challenges are explored such as identifying patients at the end of life on ICU and involving patients, families and health professionals in decision-making. Ethical issues around withholding and withdrawing treatment are also discussed. Integration of palliative care into ICU practice is recommended to support the patient, family and ICU team during a patient's end-of-life care and in bereavement. © The Intensive Care Society 2012.