Family matters

This chapter provides a unique perspective on the nature of intensive care medicine via reflections drawn from the parents, partners, and children of intensive care providers. Physical and emotional stressors are discussed as they relate to the provider as an individual and the relationship between the provider and the family member being interviewed. Taken as a whole, this chapter paints a moving portrait of the dedication of these providers and their family members, as well as offers cautionary thoughts as to the long-term toll ICU practice can take on family members.