Anticipating emotion: a qualitative study of advance care planning in the community setting

Advance care planning at the end of life is high on the political agenda across the UK. The aim is to deliver patient-centred care for all patients, whenever possible in their preferred place of care. It is widely acknowledged that discussions about the end of life are sensitive and often difficult for health professionals, particularly those in the community setting. The aim of this qualitative study was to determine the factors that assist or hinder the primary care health professionals having these discussions. The sample included one GP and one district nurse (DN) from each of three GP practices. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants, and the data was analysed using a thematic approach. The findings clearly depict two of the challenges faced by the GPs and DNs in the community: emotional labour, and balancing patients' and families' expectations about care provision in the community with the limited resources available. This study contributes to the knowledge base of advance care planning by providing insight into the experiences of the GPs and DNs who care for patients at the end of life. Further research is required to more fully understand the emotional impact on the health professionals having these sensitive discussions.