Suggestions can be used without formal hypnosis, especially with critically ill patients, due to their spontaneous trance state. In this paper we outline data on the effectiveness of therapeutic suggestions. We interpret the possible mechanism of therapeutic suggestions in the context of stress cognition. Basic principles of formulating suggestions are discussed and some recommended versions of non-pharmacological pain control are provided. Case vignettes are given of how suggestions are used with critically ill ICU patients.
Keywords: Therapeutic suggestions; critically ill; psychological support based on positive suggestions (PSBPS); stress.