Perspectives of Clinicians on the Value of the Get to Know Me Board in the ICU

Background: Critical illness can render patients at heightened risk of anonymity, loss of dignity, and dehumanization. Because dehumanization results in significant patient distress, it is imperative to find ways to humanize care in the ICU. A Get to Know Me board (GTKMB) is a personal patient profile designed to bring the patient from anonymity; however, its widespread adoption has been challenging.

Research question: Identify perspectives of ICU clinicians on the value of the GTKMB in caring for ICU patients.

Study design and methods: This qualitative study used focus groups conducted via videoconference. We recruited stakeholders from multiprofessional teams across different ICU settings at a large US quaternary care center. Thematic content analysis approach was performed to identify key themes and concepts.

Results: We interviewed 38 participants in 6 focus groups including 10 nurses, 7 physicians, 6 advanced practice providers, 5 rehabilitation therapists, a respiratory therapist, and a social worker. Themes highlighted the role of the GTKMB in multiple domains including humanizing care of the critically ill, fostering communication, connecting with families, and guiding and facilitating care processes. Several subthemes were identified for each category.

Interpretation: The GTKMB was considered important in fostering humanized caring in the ICU by diverse members of an interprofessional ICU team, helping to facilitate communication, establish family connection, and guide care.