Intersectionality and Inclusive Serious Illness Communication in the Intensive Care Unit

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Disparities
• Critical Care Nursing
• Health Communication

Background:

• Serious illness communication is critical in intensive care units (ICUs).
• Patients and families from diverse backgrounds, including various races, genders, and sexual orientations, may face discrimination.
• Discrimination can negatively impact communication, decision-making, and overall care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss intersectionality in the context of serious illness communication in the ICU.
• To explore the association between intersectionality, decision-making, and care.
• To support critical care nurses in developing inclusive communication strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of clinical practice and nursing/healthcare research.
• Conceptual analysis of intersectionality and serious illness communication.
• Synthesis of evidence to inform nursing practice.

Main Results:

• Intersectionality significantly influences patient and family experiences in serious illness communication.
• Failure to address intersecting identities can lead to discriminatory practices and suboptimal care.
• Inclusive communication requires acknowledging and responding to diverse patient needs.

Conclusions:

• Critical care nurses must integrate intersectionality into serious illness communication.
• Adopting inclusive practices can mitigate discrimination and improve care quality.
• Further research is needed to develop and evaluate culturally sensitive communication interventions.