Creating a healing environment for critical care.

Creating a healing environment for critical care requires an organizational as well as personal commitment. An organizational model for health and healing integrates five key elements: common value for the mind-body-spirit approach to wellness and health; patient/family centered relationships; an organizational culture that promotes personal growth; the availability of CAT as well as conventional therapy; and a physical environment that supports healing. CAT strategies to support a physical environment for spirituality and healing were outlined, followed by a discussion of strategies for building capacity for EI to alleviate the emotional labor of nursing and facilitate family centered care.