District nurses perception of palliative of palliative care services: part 2

Abstract

The overall aim of this study was to examine district nurses' (ONs') perceptions of palliative care services within the community setting. A questionnaire which focused on the key areas of defining palliative care, perception of roles, communication, service provision and the educational and training needs of ONs was used. This was designed following a review of the literature and combined with data from phase one of the study (Vol 5(5): 215-222), which involved focus group interviews with ONs. The questionnaire was distributed to district nursing sisters (n = 66) within two community trusts in Northem Ireland. Findings suggest that the physical ‘doing’ aspects of care continue to dominate ONs' perceptions of palliative care and their educational needs. However, the supportive element of the ON's role was also identified alongside the potential role as coordinator. Palliative care service provision was considered adequate and the main services that nurses identified as useful related to the provision of 24-hour care. The main factors identified by nurses as influencing service provision related to organizational issues such as inadequate staffing levels, limited resources and a lack of time.