Families in crisis: making the critical difference

As nurses, we are educated to care for the whole patient, to provide care for the body, mind, and spirit, and to improve the quality of life. When a patient has a crisis, his or her family is propelled into the crisis as well. Although critical care nurses have always participated in a caring manner by interacting with families of critically ill patients, nurses must be encouraged to actively seek ways in which to help these families. This article has provided guidelines and strategies for caring for families in crisis. The most effective way to care for family members in crisis is by demonstrating a conscientious concern for their loved one, that is, the patient. The knowledge that our nursing actions make a difference in the lives of family members gives us renewed insight into maintaining the care in critical care nursing.