Caring beyond cure-Perspectives of pediatric oncology nurses on end-of-life care

Caring beyond cure-Perspectives of pediatric oncology nurses on end-of-life care
Journal of Hospice & Palliative Nursing; by Peter Scarperi, Meredith MacKenzie Greenle; 6/25
In a sample of nursing students and nurses working in pediatric oncology, this mixed-methods study aimed to describe attitudes toward and experiences of providing end-of-life care and examine the relationship between education, work experience, and attitudes. Overall, participants held positive attitudes toward end-of-life care, with staff nurses more positive than student nurses. All participants had provided end-of-life care, yet only 2 (5.41%) thought their education thus far prepared them. Age, education, experience, and burnout were associated with attitudes toward providing end-of-life care. Qualitative themes included challenges of preparedness and training, the nurse’s role, and parent team barriers. Training in pediatric end-of-life care is crucial to improve nurses’ comfort with providing this care.