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Published on: February 16, 2011
Intersectionality and Inclusive Serious Illness Communication in the Intensive Care Unit
Alexander T Wolf1, Darcy E Alimenti2
1Alexander T. Wolf is Nurse Practitioner, Division of Palliative Care and Geriatric Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, MGH Institute of Health Professions, 36 1st Ave, Boston, MA 02129 (awolf1@mghihp.edu).
Abstract:
Serious illness communication can be especially distressing for patients who are critically ill and their loved ones who experience forms of discrimination based on identities such as their race, gender, sexual orientation, and other intersecting identities. In this article, we discuss the concept of intersectionality and its association with serious illness communication, decision-making, and care in the intensive care unit. Additionally, we present relevant concepts from clinical practice and contemporary nursing and health care literature to support critical care nurses in fostering more inclusive serious illness communication in the intensive care unit.
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