Uncertainty in Neurocritical Care: Recognizing Its Relevance for Clinical Decision-Making

Abstract

Uncertainty in principle entails the presence of doubt. This can lead to the inability of delayed decision making. To an observer, this will lead to skepticism and unwillingness to work with the process. Ultimately if the process continues, it will lead to mistrust and a dysfunctional working environment. William Osler was one of the first to recognize how uncertainty plays a role in our medical practice. His statement “One special advantage of the skeptical attitude of mind is that a man is never vexed to find that after all, he has been in the wrong”[1] helps with the concept he proposed in the practice of medicine. But despite the uncertainty that surrounds medicine, the history of the disease creates challenges around the individuality of each patient. This challenge is present in the practice of neurocritical care.