What are the challenges for nurses when providing end-of-life care in intensive care units?

this literature review aimed to explore qualitative studies in which nurses discussed the challenges they face when delivering end-of-life care in intensive care units (ICUs). Analysis and discussion of the studies' findings aimed to contribute to the current evidence base surrounding the subject.

a systematic search of academic databases was conducted to source relevant studies. An inductive process using grounded theory was undertaken to elicit suitable themes to address the review question.

six relevant studies were identified with four main themes emerging from analysis. The themes were a lack of nurse involvement in end-of-life care decision-making, a lack of nursing knowledge in providing end-of-life care, the dilemma of prioritising care between the patient and family, and the nature of providing end-of-life care within an ICU environment.

the provision of end-of-life care in ICUs requires nurses to be involved in interdisciplinary communication. ICU-specific end-of-life care education, training and guidelines need to be implemented to ensure patients receive high-quality, patient-centred care.