Nowadays, Nursing is sustained by different paradigms, among which we highlight those related to totality and simultaneity, since these embody the main conceptual models and specific theories for Nursing practice. This study aims to provide elements that will lead to reflections about the possibility of founding health practices at ICUs on the Humanistic Theory of Paterson and Zderad, which is part of the simultaneity paradigm. This theory supports dialogue-based care, which is translated as the genuine encounter between and among caregivers, patients and their families. Thus, ICU care will go beyond the I-That relation, to achieve the I-You relation, that is, the subjectiveness of human beings.
intensive care unit; nursing care; communication