An Ethnographic Study in Nursing Homes in Iran Publisher Pubmed



Shahrki SK¹ ; Abazari F¹ ; Nayer ND² ; Pouraboli B³
Source: International Journal of Palliative Nursing Published:2018

Abstract

Background: The approach of death is an undeniable part of ageing and death is the most important concern for elderly people who live in nursing homes. This study examines describes how care home residents feel when they recognise that they are close to death. Aims: The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of elderly residents who are dying in nursing homes as well as their caregivers toward death in an Iranian context. Methods: A focused ethnographic research design was chosen. The research sample consisted of 25 nursing home staff-three nurses, 18 healthcare assistants, two administrators, a social worker and a psychologist-and 10 elderly people in two nursing homes in Iran. Data was collected through field notes, observations and semistructured, in-depth interviews. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: There were two main themes of: Seeking the embrace of a calm death; and waiting for death. Within these, four subthemes were identified. Conclusion: The perceptions of the participants originated from the nursing home culture and their beliefs in eternal life. Training staff about the cultural needs of dying people and end-of-life care would be the most effective way to improve the experience of dying for nursing home residents. © 2018 MA Healthcare Ltd.