Caring Beyond Cure: Perspectives of Pediatric Oncology Nurses on End-of-Life Care

Pediatric oncology patients should receive high-quality end-of-life care when needed. Little is known about nurses' attitudes toward providing end-of-life care in pediatric oncology and the role of work experience in developing comfort with providing this care. In a sample of nursing students and nurses working in pediatric oncology, this mixed-methods study aimed to describe attitudes toward and experiences of providing end-of-life care and examine the relationship between education, work experience, and attitudes. Participants completed a demographic survey and the Frommelt Attitude Toward Care of the Dying, modified for pediatrics. Qualitative interviews were then completed with 10 participants. Participants (N = 38) were primarily female (87%) and White (89%). Overall, participants held positive attitudes toward end-of-life care, with staff nurses more positive than student nurses. All participants had provided end-of-life care, yet only 2 (5.41%) thought their education thus far prepared them. Age, education, experience, and burnout were associated with attitudes toward providing end-of-life care. Qualitative themes included challenges of preparedness and training, the nurse's role, and parent team barriers. Training in pediatric end-of-life care is crucial to improve nurses' comfort with providing this care. Further research should explore the impact of burnout, compassion fatigue, and interdisciplinary conflict on end-of-life care.