Nursing’s Role in End of Life Discussions

Volume 1 - Issue 1

Heidi Mason*

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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