Dynamics. 2011 Winter;22(4):31-5.

Caring for patients and families at end of life: the experiences of nurses during withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment.

Vanderspank-Wright B, Fothergill-Bourbonnais F, Brajtman S, Gagnon P.

Source

University of Ottawa, School of Nursing. bvand093@uottawa.ca

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment is a process in which active treatment and the accompanying technology are removed, ending in the death of the patient.

PURPOSE:

To understand the lived experience of critical care nurses who care for patients during the process of withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment.

METHODS:

A phenomenological study was undertaken and interviews were conducted with six critical care nurses.

RESULTS:

The essence of this experience was described by these nurses as "trying to do the right thing". Three major themes emerged: A journey--creating comfort along the way, working in professional angst, and providing memories.

PMID:: 22282952; [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Publication Types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH Terms

Grant Support

Canadian Institutes of Health Research/Canada

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