From family-centred care to humanisation of ICUs: A paediatric lens on future directions

Humanisation in the intensive care unit (ICU) reflects a shift towards care that honours patients’ dignity,
emotions, and relational needs while continuing to deliver highly technical treatments in a complex
environment. Rather than viewing critical care as purely physiological rescue, humanisation initiatives
emphasise that the experiences of patients, families, and healthcare professionals are shaped by
communication, environment, culture, and interpersonal interactions [1]. Among the various
frameworks proposed, the HU-CI (Humanizando los Cuidados Intensivos) model remains the most
frequently cited [2]. It outlines seven domains for action: effective communication, flexible visitation,
patient well-being, staff care, post-intensive care syndrome, humane design of the physical space, and
compassionate end-of-life care. Developed through broad stakeholder engagement, the HU-CI
framework offers a practical structure that can be adapted to diverse ICU settings.