Bezorgdheid bij terminaal zieke patiënten

Abstract

Title Concerns of terminally ill patients; a qualitative study at the concerns that terminally ill patients experience.

Background Terminally ill patients can experience many concerns. These concerns can affect the choices these patients make in their life and illnesses and it can affect the overall quality of life. Therefore it is necessary to gain insight in these concerns.

Aim and research questions The propose of this research was to gain insight in the concerns that terminally ill patients experience. This description can possibly provide a lead for caretakers, so they can anticipate and open the discussion on these concerns with patients and other caretakers. The research question was: Which concerns experience terminally ill patients and how do patients deal with these concerns?

Method A qualitative descriptive design was used. To collect data 11 semi structured interviews were held. The study population were terminally ill hospice patients. Data was analyzed by using open, selective and axial coding.

Results The concerns that respondents experienced were described in theme`s: don`t want to be a burden on others, physical limitations of the illness, dying itself, legacy for family and friends and the world, staying in control over their own life, significance of death for themselves and others. The way patients cope with their concerns is divers. The respondents seem to search for a way of coping that fits their own concerns and situation best.

Conclusion It seems that the concerns that terminally ill patients experience are very divers. And many different factors seem to have influence on these concerns. How patients cope with their concerns is individually determined.

Recommendations It is recommended to set up a larger qualitative study at the concerns of terminally ill patients. With this study patients and their concerns can be researched during their disease.