3) When to begin the orientation conversation
Participants thought orientation would ideally happen as close as
possible to ICU admission, although our data emphasizes that family are
often initially overwhelmed and have difficulty processing information
early in a patient’s stay. An orientation within 24 hours or prior to
the first rounds following patient admission was deemed appropriate for
most cases. Participants noted that the orientation might need to be
repeated when additional family members arrive and that it may be
helpful to provide family with a brief orientation every time they join
rounds to reinforce key points.