| dc.description.abstract | The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of oncology
nurses (ONs) in end-of-life (EOl) care. Oncology nurses often have an intimate role in
assisting patients psychologically, physically and emotionally at the EOL. As a result,
caring for dying patients affects ONs professionally as well as personally, and ultimately
becomes a fundamental part of who they are as human beings. There is a lack of
nursing research regarding the experiences of ONs in EOl care.
Understanding the experiences and perspectives of ONs who care for patients at
the EOl is important for developing strategies to support them in delivering quality care,
as well as preserving their individual health and well being.
Parse's (1998) theory of human becoming was the theoretical framework guiding
the study. The sample was a purposive convenience sample of nurses currently
practicing in either an inpatient or outpatient oncology setting. A demographic
questionnaire was utilized to aid in data collection, and semi-structured face-to-face
interviews were conducted using a researcher-developed interview guide. Data were
analyzed utilizing Giorgi's (1985) approach to phenomenological data analysis.
The three themes that emerged during data analysis include: (a) emotional work,
(b) knowing and unknowing, and (c) care for the caregiver, which supported Parse's
(1998) practice methodology of illuminating meaning, synchronizing rhythm, and
mobilizing transcendence The data discussed reveal what caring for patients at the EOl
means to ONs and how it impacts them personally. Further research is recommended
with larger samples and a larger geographical area to understand this subject in greater
depth. | en |
