A New Twist on Diaries in the Hospital Setting

Patient diaries during and after hospitalization have been used to facilitate coping of both patients and family members. Patient diaries during hospitalization include comments and descriptions about the patient’s experience. Entries can be written by clinicians, patients or family members/visitors. An innovative twist on the use of diaries has been pilot tested in the ICU—a paper chain of messages posted in the patient’s room to provide a visual of the patient’s journey. The chain, visually displayed in the patient’s room, often prompts questions and creates an opportunity for conversation.