Enhancing patient and family experience during intrahospital transfers from the ICU

Nearly all patients experience an intrahospital transfer (IHT) during their hospital stay, whether from the ED to an inpatient unit, from an inpatient unit to imaging, or for other reasons. However, for patients who experience an IHT from an ICU, the risk of adverse health outcomes and negative experiences for both patients and their families are significant. This article explores the experience of families and patients during IHTs and strategies to improve the safety of the transfer and experience for patients and families.