När döden är nära

: närståendes behov för att känna delaktighet i vården

Abstract

Background: When a family member is in the final stage of life, it is a strain on the next-of-kin. They can feel left out and it is the nurses’ task to get them participated in the healthcare. Aim: Is to highlight the next-of-kin´s needs to participate in care in the final stage of life. Method: The study is conducted as a literature study based on eleven articles. Results: There are different needs for the next-of-kin to feel participation. They need information and communication, trust and security, support and to be involved. Relevant and honest information and effective communication allows the next-of-kin to participate and trust the medical staff. Discussion: As a nurse, it is good to have knowledge of what SOC means and make use of the theory in practice. This allows the medical staff to understand what the next-of-kin goes through when they have a family member in the final stage of life. Continuous information makes the next-of-kin participated and they can comprehend what is happening around the dying person. The next-of-kin can also cope both physically and mentally and with that be able to participate in the care of the dying person. In the end the next-of-kin feels worthy once they are involved and do everything they can for the dying person. Conclusion: Regardless of where, when and how a patient is cared for there is a need for the next-of-kin to participate in the care. By the nurse having a holistic approach all parties are met.