Concept Analysis of Building Rapport in the ICU

Building rapport, understood as establishing a meaningful and trusting relationship through interpersonal interactions between healthcare professionals and patients or their family members, was described in research as early as the 1960s. Although studies highlight its importance in clinical relationships, the concept remains largely undefined, with limited research on experiences of rapport among family members of intensive care unit patients. This concept analysis can help to provide conceptual clarity for future practice and research.

This paper aimed to analyse and define the concept of 'building rapport' with ICU family members.

The concept analysis framework of Walker and Avant was used, following the systematic steps of identifying uses, attributes, antecedents, consequences and model cases. Data were obtained from Swedish and English dictionaries and peer-reviewed articles identified through a systematic literature search and screening. Titles and abstracts were reviewed, and six studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.

This analysis clarifies the previously undefined concept of building rapport from the perspective of ICU family members. Building rapport is characterized by empathy and mutual understanding. Key antecedents include communication, time and relationships, while consequences are increased trust and the development of a care partnership. An empirical referent is a shift from family members as passive recipients to active participants in care.

Key features of building rapport with ICU family members are empathy and mutual understanding, supported by communication, time and relationships. The findings suggest that rapport may facilitate family participation and care partnerships in intensive care. However, the findings should be interpreted in light of the limited empirical basis and the absence of formal quality appraisal.

Clarifying the concept of building rapport may support communication training, reflective practice and active listening strategies that strengthen partnerships with ICU family members.