Telling the story: perceptions of hospice in long-term care

Am J Hosp Palliat Care. 2012 May;29(3):201-9. doi: 10.1177/1049909111421340. Epub 2011 Oct 13.

Abstract

We used qualitative methods (13 homogenous focus groups of residents, bereaved family members, licensed staff, paraprofessional staff, and social workers) to examine the components of a good death in a long-term care (LTC). Hospice involvement as beneficial to end-of-life care emerged as a naturally occurring theme and hospice was deemed as expert in all groups. Participants indicated some barriers to hospice involvement as well as difficulties in collaboration between facility staff and hospice personnel. When viewed within the context of existing literature, these data suggest that a new model of hospice care in which hospice staff serve as expert consultants may be appropriate. This model that recognizes and optimizes the experience of both the facility staff and hospice personnel will benefit care recipients.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel
  • Death*
  • Family / psychology*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Hospice Care / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Long-Term Care / psychology*
  • Male
  • Nurses / psychology*
  • Qualitative Research
  • Social Work*