This research explored nurses and healthcare asssistants experiences of carrying out last offices in hospices and community settings. Four main themes emerged: last offices were viewed as a care activity; a learning and coping challenge; a time of transition and a demonstration of respect and support. Participants had limited experience of involving significant others in this area of care and had been concerned about potential negative psychological effects. The findings show that further research is required into the potential benefits and harms of invovling significant others.
Martin, S. & Bristowe, K. 2015. Last offices: nurses' experiences of the process and their views about involving significant others. International Journal of Palliative Nursing, 21 (4) p 173-178.
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