What is the impact of family engagement in ICU care?

• A. It has no impact on patient outcomes
• B. It lengthens hospital stay
• C. It decreases patient satisfaction
• D. It improves satisfaction, communication, and decision-making

Answer: (D)

Family engagement in ICU care means treating families as active partners in the patient’s care, information sharing, and decision-making. When families are included, clinicians communicate more clearly, validate the patient’s values and preferences, and involve them in goals of care and treatment decisions. This collaboration leads to greater satisfaction because families feel informed, heard, and supported, and it reduces confusion about prognosis and options. It also supports better decision-making, as choices reflect the patient’s wishes and values, with clearer documentation and alignment among the care team, the patient (when possible), and the family. Evidence in ICU settings supports these positive effects on satisfaction, communication, and decision-making, rather than implying no impact or negative outcomes like longer stays or reduced satisfaction.