Psychosocial and emotional management of work experience in palliative care nurses: A qualitative exploration

Abstract

BackgroundPalliative care, a crucial aspect of healthcare, faces challenges in psychosocial and emotional management among nurses. With an increasing need for palliative services globally, addressing the emotional well‐being of nurses becomes pivotal.AimTo explore nurses' psychosocial and emotional work experiences in a palliative care department. The focus is on understanding the challenges, identifying coping strategies, and assessing the impact on professional and private life when facing those experiences.MethodsA phenomenologic‐hermeneutical study involving semi‐structured interviews was conducted to comprehend the lived experiences of ten nurses working in a hospital's palliative care department in Spain. Hermeneutic analysis was employed to extract patterns and insights from their experiences. The COREQ checklist was used to report this study.FindingsPalliative care nurses perceived insufficient preparation in emotional management, grappling with complex family interactions and unique work dynamics. They highlighted the significance of self‐protection strategies, experience, clinical sessions, and external resources. Limited training in emotional resilience and challenges posed by the COVID‐19 pandemic emerged as organisational barriers. Nurses expressed a desire for enhanced training and resources.ConclusionThe study uncovered a deficiency in the emotional preparedness of palliative care nurses, impacting their professional and personal lives. Despite positive aspects, the emotional toll necessitates attention and intervention.Implications for nursing policyComprehensive emotional training for palliative care nurses, addressing barriers, providing resources, and acknowledging emotional labour is necessary. Reinstating paused training sessions and considering specific challenges like those posed by the pandemic are vital. Supporting nurses in their professional and private lives is crucial for sustaining quality care in palliative care departments.