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Experiences of Caring Through Providing Touch Near End-of-Life
Sean M Reed1, Marlaine C Smith2, Jean S Kutner3
1University of Colorado, College of Nursing, Aurora, CO.
International Journal for Human Caring
|August 20, 2025
Summary
Simple touch and massage for advanced cancer patients near end of life foster caring relationships and holistic well-being. This human care approach is essential for patients experiencing end-of-life transitions.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care
- Oncology Nursing
- Human Caring Science
Background:
- Patients with advanced cancer near end of life often experience distress and isolation.
- The role of therapeutic touch in palliative care is increasingly recognized.
- Holistic care models emphasize the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the experiences of individuals providing touch (massage or simple touch) to advanced cancer patients.
- To identify themes related to human caring within the context of end-of-life care.
- To understand the impact of touch on the caring relationship and patient well-being.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative descriptive content analysis of semistructured interviews.
- Analysis of participant narratives on providing touch to patients with advanced cancer.
- Thematic analysis to identify emergent patterns in caring experiences.
Main Results:
- Three major themes emerged: caring relationships, pattern recognition and wholeness, and transformations and transcendence.
- Touch was identified as a catalyst for developing meaningful caring relationships.
- The findings align with a unitary caring perspective, emphasizing holistic practice.
Conclusions:
- Providing touch to patients near end of life is a significant aspect of human care.
- Therapeutic touch enhances holistic practice by fostering caring relationships and promoting patient well-being.
- The study underscores the importance of touch in facilitating transformative experiences for patients in advanced cancer care.
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