Nursing’s Role in End of Life Discussions
Volume 1 - Issue 1
Heidi Mason*
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- Clinical instructor, University of Michigan School of Nursing, USA
*Corresponding author:
Heidi Mason, Clinical instructor, University of Michigan School of Nursing, USA
Received: January 25, 2018; Published: February 08, 2018
DOI: 10.32474/LOJNHC.2018.01.000101
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Abstract
Every person deserves a dignified death. What this entails varies dramatically from patient to patient. Most people, however,
never discuss their wishes regarding the care they desire for this very personal, final journey. As technology improves, as well as the
ability to successfully treat almost any condition, both patients and clinicians alike have begun to ignore the reality of death. In our
present culture discussing death has become taboo. Patients may think about the end of their lives but are unsure or uncomfortable
broaching the topic with their medical staff and families. Additionally, many clinicians are uneasy with end-of-life (EOL) discussions
and, consequently, avoid them entirely. It is, however, the ethical responsibility of health care providers to address their patient’s
wishes regarding EOL care. Clinicians need to take the initiative to begin the conversation regarding prognosis and care choices.
They need to make the patients feel that they can comfortably discuss this delicate issue without fear of judgment, pressure, or the
possibility of abandonment.
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