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Respiratory Therapy and Family Engagement in the Intensive Care Unit

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Abstract

Mechanical ventilation is a lifesaving intervention for many patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). While often necessary, it is a source of distress for the family to experience. Respiratory therapists are an important part of the team caring for mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU. Respiratory therapists interact with families daily as they care for the patient at the bedside. In this chapter, we will examine some of the interactions respiratory therapists have with these families and identify areas of opportunity to engage and empower families to participate in the care of their loved ones.

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Acknowledgment (DL)

Dedicated in loving memory to my little brother Tim LaBarge. Your giving and caring nature inspired many. I miss you dearly.

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Correspondence to Deborah Linehan .

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Linehan, D., Netzer, G. (2018). Respiratory Therapy and Family Engagement in the Intensive Care Unit. In: Netzer, G. (eds) Families in the Intensive Care Unit. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-94337-4_23

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-94337-4_23

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-94336-7

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-319-94337-4

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