Intervention and efficacy of advance care planning for patients in intensive care units and their families: a scoping review protocol

Aim: This scoping review aims to elucidate the effectiveness of advance care planning interventions for patients entering the intensive care unit and their families.

Design: Scoping review of relevant literature from January 2000-March 2020.

Methods: This review includes studies undertaken in intensive care units that focus on patients older than 18 years or their families. The review will be conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-P guideline. The PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, BNI, PsycINFO and ICHUSHI databases and the Cochrane Library will be searched for both published and unpublished articles. Two independent reviewers will examine the list of remaining titles and summarize and identify articles that meet the inclusion criteria.

Results: It has long been taboo to consider end-of-life care when in intensive care unit. However, promoting advance care planning, even in patients who are in the intensive care unit, is important and it may help support the patient's need for autonomy.