Abstract

PAZES, Maria Catarina Estevens; NUNES, Lucília  and  BARBOSA, António. Factors influencing the experience of the terminal phase and the grieving process: the primary caregiver’s perspective. Rev. Enf. Ref. [online]. 2014, vol.serIV, n.3, pp.95-104. ISSN 0874-0283.  https://doi.org/10.12707/RIII12135.

Theoretical framework: The experience of the terminal phase and death by patients and caregivers is influenced by multiple factors. This study aimed at understanding this experience from the primary caregiver’s perspective. Objectives: To describe the factors that, from the primary caregiver’s perspective, influenced the experience of disease in the terminal phase and mourning for the death of a close person; To understand the influence of nurses’ conduct on the experience of disease in the terminal phase and mourning for the death of a close person from the primary caregiver’s perspective. Methodology: Qualitative descriptive exploratory study. Results: The following factors were valued: To Assume the Caregiver’s Role, To allow for the end-of-life/terminal phase to take place at home/near the family and Process of Care. Regarding the nurses’ conduct, the knowledge, communication and relationship established by nurses were also valued. Conclusion: In addition to expanding the implementation of specific palliative care teams, the acquisition and development of basic skills in this area by most health care professionals is essential.

Keywords : terminally ill; grief; caregivers; nurse’s role.

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