Nurs Crit Care . 2026 Jan Primary Nursing in Intensive Care Units

This study investigates the transition toward primary nursing within two German intensive care units, a model designed to improve continuity of care and integrate families into the healing process. Researchers utilized a specialized assessment tool over a one-year period to measure how effectively these units moved from traditional tasks toward a more patient-centered approach. While one unit successfully reached the threshold for a full primary nursing profile, the other showed significant progress but still required further development in areas like communication and patient participation. Ultimately, the text highlights that while systemic change in high-pressure medical environments is challenging, this nursing model significantly enhances professional performance indicators and the overall therapeutic experience.