Characteristics of hospice patients, primary caregivers and nursing care problems: foundation for future research

This descriptive survey identified the characteristics of hospice patients, their primary caregivers and major nursing care problems. Data from 350 patients in 41 states were collected by the hospice nurses who cared for the patients. Patient records served as a source for the data. Pain, physical decline, family emotional difficulties, respiratory distress and constipation were identified as the most frequent major nursing care problems. This study is intended to provide the basis for more definitive investigations of nursing care measures. Questions for further analysis of one of the nursing problems, physical decline, are suggested.