No abstract

Study results suggest that within acute settings staff perceive that the LCP improves EOL care overall, assists interdisciplinary communication around death and dying, and that is a useful tool to positively influence decision making and care delivery. Further research into aspects of staff communication, diagnosing dying, changing direction of care, and the physical environment is warranted.

In a qualitative study reported by Olav Lindqvist and colleagues, the range of nonpharmacological caregiving activities used in the last days of a patient's life are described.

This study revealed the complexity of meaning relatives' experiences with dying patients' decreasing oral intake. Their perceptions and concerns were related to their awareness of the imminent death. These findings can guide staff involved in care delivery to better support relatives.

A response rate of 32% was obtained. Respondents indicated a relatively high level of confidence regarding their care of the dying, including aspects of communication, teamwork and use of documentation. However, this was often contradicted by their written responses. Written comments were analyzed thematically and six themes identified: the naturalness of dying; the character of care; care relationships; emotional response; knowledge; and the organizational environment. Data analysis provided a rich and informative description of staff perceptions of EOL and issues influencing care.