Nursing outcome 'dignified life closure' in patients under palliative care.

AIM: To analyse indicators of the nursing outcomes classification 'dignified life closure' for patients receiving end-of-life care.

METHOD: A cross-sectional, quantitative study with 52 patients using an instrument with 25 indicators for the nursing outcome. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, with a p-value of 0.05.

RESULTS

Most participants were women with religious beliefs, with an average age of 60.65, and cancer as the primary diagnosis. Statistically significant associations were found between the primary diagnosis and indicators such as 'maintains a sense of control over remaining time' (P=0.034) and 'expresses preparedness for death' (P=0.032). Correlations were also observed between religion and 'expresses hope' (P=0.025), age and 'completes significant goals' (P=0.021), and duration of palliative care and 'maintains physical independence' (P=0.033).

CONCLUSION

Nurses should focus on educational activities to improve the quality of life for palliative care patients.