An Update on Palliative Care in Neurocritical Care: Providing Goal-Concordant Care in the Face of Prognostic Uncertainty

Abstract

Purpose of review

We investigate the complexities and interplay between the concepts of prognostic uncertainty and patient preferences as they relate to the delivery of goal-concordant care to patients with severe acute brain injuries (SABI) in the Neurological Intensive Care Unit (Neuro-ICU).

Recent findings

Patients with SABI in the Neuro-ICU have unique palliative care needs due to sudden, often unexpected changes in personhood and quality of life. A substantial amount of uncertainty is inherent and poses a challenge to both the patient’s prognosis and treatment preferences. The delivery of goal-concordant care can be difficult to achieve.

Summary

The uncertainty inherent to both prognosis and patient preferences challenges the provision of goal-concordant care to patients with SABI. The best case/worst case/most likely case scenario is a communication strategy that can aid clinicians when discussing the patient’s uncertain prognosis. A time-limited trial may provide a framework for families and clinicians to pursue aggressive life-sustaining treatment for a certain amount of time, in which prognosis may become more defined, patient goals may become clearer, and clinicians and families may establish a common ground. Although the delivery of goal-concordant care in the Neuro-ICU may be an unachievable, lofty goal, it is a level of care that we should continue to strive for and discuss.