[Ideas about a "good death" in Palliative Care Nursing]

Area of Science:

• Medical Ethics
• Gerontology
• Thanatology

Context:

• The hospice movement and palliative care prioritize a "good end of life" for severely ill and dying patients.
• The concept of a "good death" is central to the ideal of "good dying" within end-of-life care.
• Existing understanding of a "good death" requires clarification and a robust theoretical framework.

Purpose:

• To analyze the current understanding of the characteristics of a "good death".
• To establish a coherent theoretical and ideational basis for the concept of a "good death".
• To define the meaning of an ideal death as a guiding principle in palliative and hospice care.

Summary:

• This article presents a concept analysis of the "good death".
• It explores the theoretical background and essential components contributing to a "good death".
• The study clarifies the multifaceted nature of an ideal end of life, serving as a reference point for care.

Impact:

• Provides a foundational understanding for healthcare professionals in palliative and hospice settings.
• Facilitates improved communication and goal-setting regarding end-of-life preferences.
• Contributes to the development of patient-centered care models focused on achieving a "good death".