Sykepleiernes eksistensielle erfaringer i relasjon med den døende pasient og pasientens pårørende i hjemmesykepleien

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe and interpret how nurses in home care cope with existential experiences in relation with the dying patient and the patient's relatives. The overarching aim is to contribute knowledge that can prevent stress and burnout among nurses and strengthen the palliative care to patients and their families in home care. Method: Qualitative method with a hermeneutical approach was applied. Sem-structured interviews with 6 nurses were conducted. The analysis was conducted based on the principles for hermeneutical sense interpretation. Findings: The analysis concluded in two main themes: 1) Nurse's vulnerability as a resource and risk in caring relationship and 2) The importance of communication and support. Conclution: The study shows that it can be difficult to find time and space to communicate with colleagues about existential issues in a hectic day. Despite the good colleague support nurses often experienced loneliness, powerlessness and isolation at work. There is a great need to put aside time for systematic reflection and guidance for nurses who work with the dying and their families in home care.