TIMS: A Mixed Methods Evaluation of the Impact of Brief Audio Files Describing Patients as People on the Medical Staff in an ICU During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract Purpose: To examine how a novel intervention known as TIMS, for “This is My Story,” impacted clinicians caring for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic on the medical intensive care unit (MICU) at the Johns Hopkins Hospital (JHH). Methods: TIMS is an audio file less than two minutes long, from an interview by a chaplain with a loved one of a patient with communications limitations. From March 30, 2021 through June 30, 2021, 57 loved ones of noncommunicative patients in the MICU participated in TIMS. A questionnaire was administered to MICU staff on their experience with TIMS files pre- and post-listening. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 17 staff. Results: Two of 57 (3.5%) loved ones declined, eight (14%) transferred, 2 (3.5%) died before the file was posted, leaving 45 (79%) having a completed file posted to the electronic medical record (EMR). A total of 97 and 88 pre- and post-listening questionnaires were completed. Responses indicated that the audio recording was appropriate and useful (98%), “considerably” increased staff empathy for the patient (74%), and thought it would “some” or “considerably” improve subsequent interactions with the patient’s loved ones (99%). The qualitative analysis found staff found the audio format easy to use and helpful to their clinical practice.Conclusion: TIMS (This is My Story) audio files, featuring a loved one of a patient with communications limitations describing the patient as a person, are an important addition to the EMR, enabling clinicians to practice with greater awareness and empathy for patients and families.