P103 The Importance of Family in End-Of-Life Care

Abstract

Objectives: The occurrence of end-of-life delirium is quite common and can be distressing for patients, family members and care providers. While there is growing evidence that information and support can help to mitigate some of this distress for family members, there is still much to be understood about how care providers perceive and respond to family member needs. This means addressing how care providers engage with emotional complexities and how care providers manage this delicate balance in feeling able to support and address these heightened needs.

Fearing the final dose

“…Establishing proficiency and confidence in providing patient-and family-centered care when they struggle with their emotions is a skill the nurse expands with experience. 6 Verbal nursing education is key, Nurses are the frontline healers, comforters, and patient advocates. Without proper end-of-life training, nurses lack the confi dence necessary to provide the care their patients deserve.…”

“…Informing the family that the patient will still hear them may alleviate their fears of medication administration. Establishing proficiency and confidence in providing patient- and family-centered care when they struggle with their emotions is a skill the nurse expands with experience 6. Verbal nursing education is key, but for those who may be better visual learners, a great resource often given to family and friends at end of life is the pamphlet, “Gone From My Sight, The Dying Experience,” written by Barbara Karnes, RN 7.…”