Reactions to death and dying by doctors, medical students and nurses in Singapore 1985-86

Questionnaires concerning their own death were given to groups of general practitioners, final year medical students, 2nd year medical students, post-basic nurses, nurses working with the home nursing foundation and religious nursing sisters. The results of the questionnaire indicate that the majority wish to die at home with their families present, and would like spiritual advice. The majority of the respondents believe in a life after death. Although a minority fear death, most feared a prolonged dying process, troubling others and a painful death. Most want to be told if they are terminally ill, want to help prepare their families for matters after their death and wish to discuss their death with their relatives. For those who are actively involved in the care of the dying in Singapore, the questionnaire was extended to include their opinions on their own experience in the care of the dying. The majority were not satisfied with the level of care given. Further support for the professional carers in the form of multidisciplinary seminars, and the formation of a hospice movement was deemed necessary by the majority. The greatest indication of problems in satisfying the needs of the dying patient and the family is in the desire to legislate euthanasia by 23% of doctors and 38% of nurses.