How is caring paternalism feasible in the intensive care unit? – an ethnographic study
A Chinese ethnographic study in an ICU, viewed through the ethics of care, found that medical paternalism (strict rules, limited visitation/decision-making) caused patient emotional isolation and diminished autonomy. While justified for safety, this traditional approach neglects patients' emotional needs. The study advocates integrating compassionate, individualised care strategies with clinical safety to create a more humane and scientifically robust ICU model.
The intensive care unit (ICU) is characterised by critically ill patients and strict medical management, which has fostered a model of medical paternalism. Although these practices are often justified to protect patients’ “best interests,” they frequently neglect individuals’ emotional needs and autonomy.
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