Our review identified outcome-based assessment as the predominant measure used to report effectiveness of clinical ethics consultation consultations. In particular, clinical ethics consultation decreased ICU length of stay and increased family and healthcare provider satisfaction. However, using outcome measures as the primary endpoint may not reflect the original intent of the clinical ethics consultation service. Based on our review, we propose a list of process measures that may better capture the key domains of a quality clinical ethics consultation. We examined changes in processes and outcomes as a result of clinical ethics consultation in the ICU. Categories of outcomes included user perception, clinical decision, or conflict resolution and resource utilization.

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