Recognition of General Ward Nurses on Advance Care Planning (ACP) for Cancer Patient in Palliative Care

Abstract

Backgrounds and Aims: Advance Care Planning (ACP) is necessary for the decision making support of cancer patients. To that end, the truth telling about the diagnosis of cancer, respect for thought, intention, privacy is important. In this study, we investigated the recognition about ACP for cancer patients in general ward nurses to clarify what kind of promotion is necessary to enhance ACP. Methods: Eight hundred nurses who are engaged in nursing cancer patients in the general ward of nationally designated cancer medical collaborating hospital in Hiroshima prefecture were included in this study. Survey was carried out by self-written questionnaire survey by mailing method. Results: Valid responses were 364/800 (46%). The rate of achievement of patients’ advocacy and respect for protection was about 74% and 88%, respectively. That of respect of patients’ privacy was 89%. However, there were variations in recognition when the patient’s condition deteriorated. Only 20% of nurses recognized properly the meaning of ACP. Conclusion: The recognition of ACP in general ward nurses was insufficient. Accordingly, the enlightenment, education, environment maintenance for general ward nurses are urgent themes.