A Nationwide Survey about Care of Dying Patients in Acute Care Hospitals in Korea

Abstract

Background:The case of dying in acute hospitals is expected to increase in Korea, and the demand for high-quality care for dying patients in acute hospitals is also growing. Through a nationwide survey, this study analyzed public attitudes and needs of care for dying patients in acute hospitals. Methods: In October 2018, we sampled 500 Koreans over age twenty, following proportional population distribution by region, gender, and age. Using structured questionnaire, we surveyed their attitudes and needs of care for dying patients in acute hospitals. Results: Most respondents (75.0%) demanded that they should know the possibility of their death and 70.0% of respondents wanted to inform their family of their impending death. Respondents also expressed their strong demand for high-quality medical care (88.4%) and psychosocial and spiritual care (60%) in developing desirable care system for dying patients. Among the essential conditions for high-quality care for dying patient in acute health hospitals, detailed explanation of patients' condition, supports for caregiving, convenient facilities, comfortable hospital environment, and private rooms were ranked high. Conclusion:The majority of Korean adults showed their strong need for high-quality medical services in caring after dying patients and their families. In addition, there exists a high demand for practical support such as supports for caregivers, convenience facilities, and private space for dying patients.