Analysis of the Concept of Palliative Care Based on Rodgers' Approach

Application of palliative care has been emphasised in nursing care. Considering the extent of the concept of palliative care over time and its various definitions, this study was carried out with the aim of explaining the concept of palliative care. The aim of this study was to review scientific articles to check the conceptualization of palliative care. The analysis of the evolutionary concept of Rodgers was used as a guiding framework.

A concept analysis paper.

Search in databases of MAGIRAN, SIENCEDIRECT, CINAHL and PUBMED using keywords of "Palliative care" along with descriptors of "Nursing" and "Medical" was carried out on the published English and Persian studies between the years 2004 and 2024. The data were analysed according to the stages of Rodgers' conceptual model.

A sample consisting of 45 traces was analysed. Five main features consisting of comprehensive care, supporting the patient and his/her family, clinical decision making based on the patient and his/her family preferences, interdisciplinary coordination of care, and a combination of science and art were identified. In addition to these antecedents, there are some other features as follows: the existence of a need for Palliative care, evidence-based symptom management, awareness of the culture, values, and beliefs of patients, a positive and proactive attitude towards palliative care, dynamic communication and empathy with patients and their families, transparency in the role of the provider of palliative care services, organisational support, identification of adaptation strategies with death, and education based on palliative care. Also, positive and negative outcomes and the related concepts were summarised and discussed.

Palliative care is a comprehensive care and dynamic process that covers all aspects of the client's existence. Sufficient knowledge and experience are required to perform effective palliative care as a clinical skill and qualification. Creating the appropriate substructure in order to educate and develop the skills of palliative care for the core team personnel, especially clinical nurses and physicians, is necessary.