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.