In the context of end-of-life (EOL) care in the intensive care unit (ICU), recent research has often focussed on patients’ families. Studies have shown the importance of communication between ICU clinicians and families, highlighting the impact on family symptoms in the months that follow the patient’s death.

Bereaved families who experience communication as unsatisfactory are at higher risk of post-ICU burden.

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the quality of communication was undermined due to restricted visiting policies, with potential negative effects on bereaved families’ well-being.

Recent research stresses the importance of communication in all forms, not only information giving.

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