What every intensivist should know about: Trust in the ICU

Abstract

Trust is an essential element in the relationship between patients and intensive care unit (ICU) clinicians. Without a foundation of trust, communication is difficult, conflict is more likely, and even clinical outcomes can be affected. The ICU is a particularly challenging environment for trust to flourish. Illness occurs suddenly, emotions can be charged, the environment is impersonal, and there is rarely a prior relationship between patients and their caregivers. Therefore, intensivists must have some understanding of the factors that impact patient and family trust, as well as the actions they can take to improve it.