This observational study aims to explore the real-time experiences, perceptions, and challenges faced by intensive care unit (ICU) physicians during goals-of-care discussions-specifically Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) and end-of-life decision-making conversations-with families of critically ill patients in a Muslim-majority healthcare setting. The study seeks to identify factors that influence whether a DNAR decision is reached after physician-family discussions, and how physician experience, family dynamics, religious perspectives, and institutional support affect communication outcomes and care transitions. Participants will include ICU physicians (residents, fellows, and consultants) who routinely conduct DNAR discussions as part of clinical care. After each discussion, physicians will complete a brief structured questionnaire about their perceptions of the interaction, family emotions, and decision outcomes. These responses will be anonymously linked to limited, de-identified patient-level data (e.g., diagnosis, ICU course, and outcome) extracted retrospectively from the electronic medical record. No patients or family members will be contacted directly. Data collection will occur prospectively over two years at King Faisal Specialist Hospital \& Research Centre-Jeddah. Findings from this study are expected to provide culturally grounded insights that inform physician training, enhance family-centered communication, and guide policy development for DNAR and end-of-life discussions in Muslim-majority intensive care units.
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Number of Participants with Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (DNAR) Status After Goals-of-Care Discussion
Timeframe: After each DNAR discussion