Careful consideration
Healthcare professionals indicated that they have to consider all options and avoid medically irresponsible treatments.“It is important to estimate in advance, before you admit someone to the intensive care, firstly that you consider the chances of success and secondly whether you think it will add something to the patient’s quality of life in the future” [Interview 1]. It is important that patients are aware of their situation and that expectations are managed . Healthcare professionals mentioned that some patients are afraid for what happens when they decide not to be treated in the ICU.Giving perspective is important and talking about it can help patients and their families. “People are sometimes afraid that with pneumonia they will die of dyspnea. It is good that when family comes along, you can explain that if it is not going well and the patient becomes short of breath, you can provide palliative care” [Interview 1].