Sjuksköterskans roll i palliativ vård
en litteraturstudie
Caring for the suffering, dying patients and giving support to relatives is probably one of the toughest jobs a nurse can encounter. Palliative caring is, with different measures, the prolonging of life whereas hospice caring is giving patients a meaningful and natural journey toward death. The hospice philosophy is grounded on comfort, communication and peace. The expectation is that patients will have a dignified, peaceful death. The purpose of this study was to describe the nurse's role in palliative care. A literature study was used to analyze previously publicized scientific articles within the field. Relieving of pain was primary in palliative caring in hospice as well as in hospital. An earnest relationship between nurse, patient and relatives was of utmost importance. This relationship gave a sense of safety and had positive effects on patient's quality of life and well-being although death was near. An empathic nurse was aware and sensitive, showing respect, patience, and integrity, giving time needed to patients and was accessible, while simultaneously keeping a certain distance. The nurse was observant to the patient's facial expressions as well as body language, giving room for spiritual needs and a caring hand to both patient and relatives.