Abstract
Background: It is estimated that the majority of
adults (if diagnosed with a terminal illness) would
prefer to die at home. Although UK government
initiatives such as the introduction of the End of Life
Care Programme promote patients’ choice to die at
home despite this there remain a persistent number of
patients with cancer who had chosen to die at home
being admitted to hospital in the last days and hours of
life.
Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the factors
that influence this outcome.
Methodology: A qualitative study using two focus
group interviews with community nurses (district
nurses and community specialist palliative care nurses)
was undertaken across two primary care trusts in the
north west of England. Data was analysed using a
thematic analysis approach.
Results and discussion: All respondents highlighted
the ability of carers to cope as a major factor affecting
whether patients with cancer were enabled to die at
home. Influencing factors such as the ability of the
family to cope and the duration of the illness are also
reported. This paper discusses the results and explores
potential reasons for the findings. Recommendations
for the development of a carer assessment tool with
appropriate supportive interventions are made.
Original language | English |
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Publication status | Published - 2009 |
Event | 11th Congress for the European Association for Palliative Care - Vienna, Austria Duration: 7 May 2009 → 10 May 2009 |
Conference
Conference | 11th Congress for the European Association for Palliative Care |
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Country/Territory | Austria |
City | Vienna |
Period | 7/05/09 → 10/05/09 |