Introduction
In the complex landscape of long-term care, nurses play a pivotal role in supporting families making end-of-life decisions for residents with dementia. A recent study titled "What will happen to my mom? A grounded theory on nurses’ support of relatives’ end-of-life decision-making process for residents living with dementia in long-term care homes" sheds light on how this support can be optimized to improve outcomes for both residents and their families.
Key Findings from the Study
The study emphasizes the importance of a strong, trusting relationship between nurses and relatives. This relationship forms the foundation for effective communication and support, enabling families to make informed decisions regarding end-of-life care. Here are the main components identified:
- Triggers for Discussion: Key events such as admission to a care home, onset of specific symptoms, or a decrease in quality of life prompt necessary conversations about end-of-life care.
- Building Trust: Trust is built through technical competence, transparent communication, and genuine interest in the resident and their family.
- Addressing Care Refusal: Exploring and addressing fears of abandonment and poor care quality can help families accept palliative care.
- Witnessing and Understanding: Families need to witness the resident's condition firsthand to fully grasp the situation and make informed decisions.
- Timely Education: Educating families at the right time with clear, jargon-free language helps them understand the resident's condition and care options.
Implications for Practice
For practitioners, these findings underscore the need to prioritize relationship-building and communication skills. By fostering trust and providing clear, timely information, nurses can guide families through the emotional and complex process of end-of-life decision-making. This approach not only benefits the families but also enhances the quality of care provided to residents.
Encouragement for Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to explore the dynamics of nurse-family relationships in diverse cultural contexts and the role of other healthcare team members in supporting end-of-life decision-making. Expanding this research can lead to more comprehensive strategies for improving care in long-term settings.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: What will happen to my mom? A grounded theory on nurses’ support of relatives’ end-of-life decision-making process for residents living with dementia in long-term care homes.
