The ICU Families & Kids Project is an initiative that focuses on supporting relatives of intensive care patients. As part of this project, Magdalena Hoffmann investigated the (information) needs and challenges of relatives and families affected by intensive care patients.
"The ICU Families & Kids Project aims to create a supportive environment to reduce the stress experienced by those affected by a stay in intensive care and to strengthen the resilience and health literacy of their relatives."
Magdalena Hoffmann, Project manager
The aim of the project is to investigate the needs of families when their relatives are in intensive care with a serious or life-threatening illness. An important aspect of the project is its multidisciplinary approach, which brings together experts from different fields to provide comprehensive support. The relatives affected were actively involved throughout the development of the project to ensure that their perspectives and needs are reflected in the measures and programs offered.
After carrying out numerous cooperation projects in the DACH region, the support services developed have evolved into a steadily growing association. The services are available to those affected and intensive care units throughout the German-speaking region.
The project is supported by major scientific societies and supervised by an international network of experts from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. This enables various resources to be made available – both for those affected in the form of information materials, films, and podcasts, and for medical staff to support families during this difficult time.
Communication and exchange between families and the intensive care team is promoted, enabling a better understanding of the procedures and treatment processes in the intensive care unit.
