Experience of Nurses Who Care for Patients Undergoing Cancer Treatment during the Downward Phase of the Illness Trajectory

― Discussion based on cultural feature of care in general hospitals without a palliative care team ―

Abstract

Aim
This study aims to clarify the experience of nurses who care for patients undergoing cancer treatment during the downward phase of the illness trajectory.
Methods
The study involved 5 nurses who worked at general hospitals without palliative care teams and had cared for patients undergoing cancer treatment during the downward phase of the illness trajectory. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 5 nurses and analyzed with qualitative synthesis method (KJ method).
Results
The experience structure of nurses comprised six characteristics as follows: [the practice of treating patients without the awareness or consideration of their personality because of hectic schedule], [the evocation of experiences that resonate with patients], [the exploration of patients’ personality on the basis of their history and pain suffered as a result of illness/treatment], [the clarification of values as nursing professionals who keep close contact with patients undergoing end-of-life cancer treatment], [the response for interdependence between patients and family/medical staff], and [the promotion of subjective decision making with regard to patient care].
Discussion
The nurses had a tendency to coordinate doctor-patient relationships, listen to patients, and treat the true need of patients, and these cultural characteristics ensured that they paid attention to patients’ personality when caring for them.
Conclusion
In a caring environment without palliative care experts, it is essential for nurses to accumulate opportunities that allow them to reflect on responses for interdependence and decision making with regard to patient care.