The experience of the moment of death in a specialist palliative care unit (SPCU).
This qualitative study is unique in examining the moment of death in a SPCU and in maximizing recall by interviewing relatives early in their bereavement. Despite its traditional significance, the moment of death has been largely unexplored in a hospice setting. Twenty-nine adults including 3 teenagers from 20 families were interviewed on average 22 days (range 8-42 days) after the death in a SPCU. They provided a rich and detailed description of the moment of death often with humour. Additional themes were the importance of vigil; qualities of the staff; value of ritual and prayer and the environment of the SPCU. We cannot hear the stories of the dead. We can try to hear the stories of those who have witnessed dying. These relatives cared deeply for the individual who was dying. They observe every detail, attending to their role and observing the role of others. They are valuable witnesses.
Donnelly
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SM
Hospital Palliative Care Service, Wellington Regional Hospital, Wellington, New Zealand. sinead.donnelly@ccdhb.org.nz
Donnelly
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CN
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001293:Attitude to Death; D001601:Bereavement; D003657:Decision Making; D006801:Humans; D007494:Ireland; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011368:Professional-Family Relations; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D036301:Qualitative Research