Background of the Study
End-of-life care is a critical aspect of oncology, as many cancer patients eventually face terminal diagnoses where curative treatments are no longer an option. End-of-life care decisions often involve complex emotional, ethical, and medical considerations, and oncology nurses are integral in facilitating these discussions and supporting patients and families in making informed decisions (Thomas et al., 2023). Oncology nurses are uniquely positioned to advocate for patient wishes, provide emotional support, and help families navigate the difficult choices that arise during the end-of-life process (Booth et al., 2024).
At University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu State, oncology nurses play a pivotal role in supporting both patients and families in making end-of-life care decisions. However, there is limited research on the specific role of oncology nurses in improving these decisions, particularly in the Nigerian healthcare context. This study seeks to assess the role of oncology nurses in improving end-of-life care decisions at University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, with a focus on their involvement in facilitating discussions, providing education, and supporting patients’ preferences and choices.
Statement of the Problem
End-of-life decisions in oncology care can be complex and emotionally charged, and the role of oncology nurses in guiding these decisions is often underappreciated. At University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, the involvement of oncology nurses in improving end-of-life care decisions has not been comprehensively evaluated. This study aims to assess the extent to which oncology nurses contribute to improving end-of-life care decisions and identify any barriers they face in fulfilling this role.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the role of oncology nurses in facilitating end-of-life care decisions at University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital.
2. To evaluate the impact of oncology nurses’ involvement in improving patient and family decision-making at the end of life.
3. To identify the challenges oncology nurses face in supporting end-of-life care decisions and suggest potential improvements.
Research Questions
1. What role do oncology nurses play in improving end-of-life care decisions at University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital?
2. How do oncology nurses' contributions improve the decision-making process for patients and families facing terminal cancer diagnoses?
3. What challenges do oncology nurses face in supporting end-of-life care decisions?
Research Hypotheses
1. Oncology nurses significantly improve the quality of end-of-life care decisions through their involvement in patient and family discussions.
2. The involvement of oncology nurses in end-of-life care decision-making enhances patient and family satisfaction with the decision-making process.
3. Oncology nurses face significant challenges, including emotional and communication barriers, in supporting end-of-life care decisions.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the role of oncology nurses in facilitating end-of-life care decisions at University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu State. Limitations include potential biases in nurse reporting and the difficulty of measuring the qualitative aspects of end-of-life decision-making.
Definitions of Terms
• End-of-Life Care Decisions: Decisions made by patients and families regarding the continuation or cessation of treatment and other care measures at the end of life.
• Oncology Nurses: Registered nurses specializing in cancer care, with responsibilities including facilitating communication and decision-making regarding treatment and care.
• Decision-Making Process: The process by which patients, families, and healthcare providers work together to make informed choices regarding care and treatment, especially in terminal conditions.
Chapter One: Introduction
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