Palliative Education of the Family in the Care of Terminal Patients: A Descriptive Correlational Study

Abstract

Palliative care (PC) education is critical for proper practice and compassionate care. The training of health professionals in PC seems insufficient and of variable quality. Studies point towards the need for training of these professionals in PC. Several authors emphasize the need to develop communication skills consistent with PC quality standards. Secondary data comes from 370 adult oncology and nononcologic patients in the terminal phase between July 2014 and June 2015. There is a statistically significant difference in 4 out of 21 criteria on education for patients and families: 1) Diagnosis, signs and symptoms, 2) Medical treatment, 3) Restrictions and, 4) Skin care. According to the results, nurses are more oriented to cancer patients than non-cancer patients.