The Many NICU Shades of Gray: Understanding and Navigating Uncertainty in Clinical Care

Uncertainty exists within many aspects of neonatal care. However, neonatal intensive care unit clinicians report varying comfort levels with managing uncertainty in clinical care. Although accepting ambiguity and demonstrating proficiency in communication are required components of medical education, there is a lack of formal curricula on uncertainty in medicine. Despite this, clinicians must find ways to effectively partner with parents to develop care plans in situations with elements of uncertainty. This article reviews frameworks of uncertainty, perspectives, and experiences of parents and neonatologists; examines approaches to navigating uncertainty in clinical care; and suggests the need for formal training to manage uncertainty in neonatology.