Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to clarify the experience and support of family caregivers of terminal cancer patients approaching death at home. Method: The study participants were five home-visiting nurses having over three years of experience in caring for terminal cancer patients and family caregivers and having about ten support cases. The data was collected by semi-structured interviews and analyzed from the view point of the experience and support of family caregivers of terminal cancer patients in near-death at home. Results: Among the experiences of family caregivers, five themes were identified: "determination and dilemma about caring for the dying family member at home"; "perception and confusion close to the family member's death"; "conflict and reconstruction of the intention or emotion between family member's" "presence of the moment of the death and bereavement" and "the experiences and meanings of bereavement". Among the supports for family caregivers three themes were identified: "caring for fragile emotions of family caregivers in the approaching death of their family"; "exploit the family's abilities needed in caring for the dying family member at home"; and "ensuring the physical and emotional well-being and daily life of family caregivers". Discussion: It is important to consider the interventions for family caregivers to overcome several experiences involved in the approaching death of a family member and to support personal growth to live proactively after bereavement.
