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Next of Kin's Feelings of Guilt and Shame in End-of-Life Care
Birgitta Andershed
Senior Lecturer, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Örebro University; Department of Palliative Care Research, Ersta Sköndal University College, Stockholm, Sweden
Carina Werkander Harstäde
Lecturer, Department of Caring Sciences, Karolinska Institute, Gotland University College, Visby, Sweden
Abstract
In this study the aim was to explore and describe next of kin’s feelings of guilt and shame in end-of-life care via secondary analysis of 47 qualitative interviews.
In the analysis categories and subcategories emerged which conveyed how the next of kin experienced guilt; not having done or talked enough, being absent at important events or making errors of judgement. Categories conveying feelings of shame were situations where the next of kin felt inferior, was ashamed on behalf of the dying person and when family conflicts became apparent.
Receiving help and support in order to make the remaining period as pleasant as possible can facilitate the next of kin’s sense of having fulfilled their duties and responsibilities and therein reduce feelings of guilt and shame. It is apparent that these feelings should be taken into account and the next of kin should receives support to increase their well-being during the remaining time in end-of-life care and the grieving period.
Keywords
Palliative care, nursing, relatives, next of kin, family carers, shame, guilt
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