Vård av patienter i livets slutskede och deras anhöriga : undersköterskors beskrivningar

Palliative care is founded on a holistic attitude, with the goal to alleviate suffering when a cure is no longer possible. Palliative care affirms life and regards dying as a normal process, providing possibilities of a quality time for the patient and family. Studies show that an increasing number of people choose to live the final phase of their life in their own home. A requirement for end of life care is an effective team work, where the nurse is responsible for more advanced care, and the caregiver’s provides the immediate care. The purpose of this study was to gain insight of caregiver’s experiences with patients in end of life care. An interview was conducted with seven caregivers, where the material is processed by a content analysis with qualitative approach. The results showed that the caregivers were engaged in meeting with dying patients and their families. Three themes emerged: to prioritize, to give and receive support, and to care with dignity. The following conclusions were found; Time and continuity is an essential constituent of the care for patients in palliative care. Caregivers should be given time for support and reflection. Skilled personnel with education and good knowledge of palliative care are needed in the care of palliative patients and their families