Decisions to limit therapy (DTLT) are routine for ICU physicians. Although breaking bad news is one of the most difficult tasks clinicians face, ongoing communication is even more crucial as families (not necessary following a legal or genetic definition) of critically ill patients have heightened communication needs.

Supporting families during the process of shared decision-making from the pursuit of cure/recovery to the pursuit of comfort/freedom of pain is a key concern for our ICU.

Communication, including announcements, but also listening to families requires time and training. As few physicians had received formal training in how to deliver bad news, Avicenne ICU, with the help of a newly appointed psychologist, has developed specific training.

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