Communication with Patient and Family in ICU

Breaking cancer news to the patients and family members is always challenging for all involved and good communication skills is critically important. The challenges continue after sharing the news and ethical dilemma while caring for these patients in intensive care units is not uncommon. We need to provide realistic hope to the patients and family and at the same time address the psychological aspects of cancer. Advance care planning helps patients to be prepared for unforeseen situations, end-of-life care and prevents anxiety and depression. When the patient is not able to make decisions because of critical illness, surrogate decision-making should be considered. This chapter will review the process from cancer diagnosis to decision-making in critically ill patients.