Critical care nurses' responses to patient photographs displayed at the bedside

Photographs of patients placed at the bedside by family or friends are a common sight in the intensive care unit. Few studies have shown that displaying patient photographs can have the following effects: motivate staff in caring for the patient by creating a reminder of the patient's preillness state; enhance the empathetic bond between nurse and patient; personalize care in a highly technical environment; and improve the communication between the nurse, patient, and family.