Ethical Issues Throughout the Palliative Care Process: Perspectives of Healthcare Professionals and Family Caregivers

This study examines how ethical issues in palliative care are perceived and experienced by healthcare professionals and family caregivers in Türkiye. Using a phenomenological qualitative design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 healthcare professionals and 10 family caregivers. Thematic analysis revealed two key themes: "decision-making process" and "service process." While both groups shared similar ethical concerns, their priorities differed. Healthcare professionals emphasized institutional and professional challenges, whereas family caregivers focused on communication gaps, emotional needs, and inadequate patient-centered care. The findings highlight the complex interaction of professional authority, cultural norms, and institutional constraints shaping ethical practices. Strengthening ethical decision-making requires fostering open dialogue between healthcare teams and families, enhancing ethical awareness, clarifying informed consent, and ensuring fair access to services. These insights contribute to improving ethical standards, education, and research in palliative care. Based on participants' lived experiences, these findings contribute to strengthening the ethical foundations of palliative care in Türkiye.