Meaningful experiences and end-of-life care in the intensive care unit: A qualitative study

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive exploration of nurses’ meaningful experiences of providing end-of-life care to patients and families in the intensive care unit (ICU). The objectives of this research were: (1) To explore what is meaningful practice for nurses regarding end-of-life care; (2) To describe how nurses create a good death in the intensive care unit and (3) To identify the challenges that nurses face that affect their meaningful experiences and ultimately the creation of a good death. Research design This study utilised an interpretive phenomenological approach using Van Manen’s (1997) method. Setting In-depth, face-to-face interviews were conducted with six intensive care nurses employed in a 32-bed medical/surgical intensive care unit of an academic tertiary care centre in Canada. Findings The overarching theme from the analysis of this experience was “being able to make a difference” which was intricately woven around contributing to a good death. Three main themes were identified and included: creating a good death, navigating the challenges and making it work. Conclusion The findings reveal how intensive care nurses provide good end-of-life care and create good deaths for patients and families.