A cancer diagnosis and treatment trajectory can have a significant effect not only on the patient but also on his or her family. Similarly, an admission to critical care can affect family members. Increasing numbers of cancer patients require an admission to critical care at some point during their treatment pathway. Families may suffer the dual effect of loved ones undergoing cancer treatment alongside an expected or unexpected admission to critical care, resulting in physical and psychosocial issues such as fatigue, anxiety, depression and financial burden.

This article examines the needs of this complex family group, focusing on the difficulties of establishing such needs. Challenges for clinical staff in providing adequate support to these families are highlighted.