Improving end-of-life care: gathering suggestions from family members

Tertiary care centers are criticized for not providing a peaceful death experience. This qualitative study was undertaken to ascertain suggestions family members (N = 29) might have to improve the situation. Family members made three major suggestions where the negative effects of the complex hospital system might be ameliorated when caring for dying patients: facilitate improved interaction between the dying patient and the family; improve interactions between caregivers and patients/families; and create a setting, or milieu, more conducive to these interactions. Further, family members related an overwhelming need to be close physically to their dying loved one; to be given permission, instruction, and opportunities to touch their loved one; to receive more information from caregivers; and to have their and their loved one's personhood acknowledged and respected. Thus, nurses should engage in respectful, personalized conversations with patients and families that allow them to define the dying experience they desire.