Adv Exp Med Biol. 2026;1487:503-514. doi: 10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_45.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Interacting with dying children is one of the most challenging aspects of nursing. Nurses’ emotions and perceptions while caring for children at the end of their lives could influence the quality of care provided.
AIM: To investigate emotions and perceptions of pediatric nurses regarding end-of-life care of children.
METHODS: 170 pediatric hospital nurses completed a self-reported questionnaire that consisted of questions to collect information related to sociodemographic characteristics as well as questions regarding previous training in the care of dying patients, previous experience in the care of these patients, and, more generally, previous experience with issues related to death.
RESULTS: 68.6% of participants reported being greatly affected by a child’s death, mainly feeling sadness/distress (44%), compassion (22%), guilt (22%), and anger (22%). 44.7% felt unprepared to handle death. 73% wished the child would die in their absence, 62.8% believed family care should continue during grieving, while 70.6% felt nurses should join psychological support groups.
CONCLUSIONS: Integrating death and end-of-life care concepts into nursing education and practice could enhance the quality of end-of-life care for patients and families.
PMID:41273587 | DOI:10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_45
