Hospice Attitudes of Physicians and Nurses: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Palliative Care
• Medical Sociology
• Healthcare Professional Attitudes

Background:

• Hospice care is integral to end-of-life care, yet understanding professional perspectives is vital for optimizing its delivery.
• Existing research highlights varying views on patient autonomy and the definition of a 'good death' within hospice settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the attitudes of internal medicine physicians and hospice nurses toward hospice programs in a Southeastern US county.
• To explore factors influencing these attitudes, including patient control, professional education, communication, referral processes, and the concept of a 'good death'.

Main Methods:

• A postal survey was administered to internal medicine physicians and hospice nurses.
• The survey collected data on views regarding patient control, professional education and communication, hospice referral, and the characteristics of a 'good death'.

Main Results:

• Professional role (physician vs. nurse) was a more significant determinant of attitudes toward hospice programs than gender.
• Physicians expressed less agreement than nurses regarding the importance of patient control in hospice care.
• Findings indicated a need for increased emphasis on end-of-life issues in professional education and improved communication during the dying process.

Conclusions:

• Occupational role plays a critical part in shaping healthcare professionals' attitudes towards hospice care.
• There is a clear need to enhance medical education regarding end-of-life care and to foster open communication between professionals and patients.
• The definition of a 'good death' aligns with previous research, suggesting a consistent understanding among professionals.