FICUS® Care Model

The FICUS® care model is a new, nurse-led support program for relatives of critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU), implemented by the entire ICU team. It was developed through a scientific study in collaboration with healthcare professionals and family members and is based on a systemic family-centered approach and research.

With this model, a new role is introduced to the ICU treatment team – a nurse specialized in family care, who accompanies relatives through the often distressing time in the ICU and beyond. The model combines three central components, offered during and after the ICU stay:

1. Enganging and Liaising
   The family nurse establishes early contact with the family, helps them find their way around the ICU, ensures regular communication touchpoints, and coordinates family support within the entire care team. They also continue to support the family during transitions – such as transfer to another unit or in the event of a loss. This creates a continuous support arc with a consistently available point of contact for families.

2. Supporting
   Conversations with relatives aim to understand and address the family's situation, needs, and stressors. Through targeted discussions, psychoeducational counseling, information, and active listening, the family nurse helps identify strengths, ease the burden of illness, and strengthen family relationships. Families thus receive tailored nursing support in dealing with their loved one's critical illness and its impacts.

3. Communicating
   Regular, structured conversations between the family, physicians, nurses, and other interprofessional team members ensure a steady flow of information, foster shared understanding, allow for open questions, and support participation in decision-making. The family nurse organizes and moderates these conversations together with the ICU physicians, ensuring close communication and collaboration between the care team, patient, and family. 

The FICUS® care model covers the entire patient journey: from ICU admission and treatment to transfer to another ward or post-care setting, including follow-up support within the first few months. This follow-up is available to all families – regardless of whether their loved one has passed away, remains in hospital care, or is recovering. Support is adapted flexibly to the family’s situation and needs – from brief encounters to longer conversations. Frequency is agreed upon together.

The goal: Relatives should feel seen, informed, and supported – and better be able to navigate this intense time together with the care team.