Lessons Learned from an Embedded Palliative Care Model in the Medical Intensive Care Unit
A study in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that after embedding a palliative care physician and registered nurse into the medical intensive care unit, patients received earlier palliative care consultation, were more likely to have medical decision-maker and goals of care documented, and less likely to die in the hospital. Future work will examine how to adapt this model to other ICUs to improve palliative care access for critically ill patients broadly.