Preserving patient dignity in critical care units: A qualitative content analysis

Background & Aim: Patient dignity is a fundamental aspect of human rights, particularly when individuals are most vulnerable. Although maintaining patient dignity seemed to be challenging in Critical Care Units due to the complexity of medical procedures and critical condition of patients, a paucity of evidence exists exploring dignity preservation in Critical Care Units as well as its requirements from the patients' perspective. Thus, we aimed to explore patients’ dignity in Critical Care Units and the requirements for its preservation. Methods & Materials: This qualitative study was conducted on 20 patients selected from the Critical Care Units of Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran, Iran, through purposeful sampling. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and were analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman’s conventional content analysis method. Interviews explored patients' experiences and expectations regarding dignity preservation. Results: The analysis revealed three main categories and nine subcategories essential for preserving patient dignity in Critical Care Units: 1) Care Ethics: Informed Decision-Making, Respecting Patient Concerns, and realistic interaction; 2) Humanity Preservation: Empathetic Acceptance, Avoiding Objectification, and Maintaining Patient Privacy; and 3) Personalized Care: Identifying Needs Proactively, Adapting Care to Individual Conditions, and Ensuring Comfort and Well-being. Participants emphasized the importance of empathetic communication, respect for their personal values and preferences, and maintaining a clean, comfortable environment. Conclusion: The findings highlight the necessity for healthcare professionals to engage in ethical care, foster empathetic patient interactions, and proactively address the unique needs of each patient to enhance dignity preservation in critical care settings.