Abstract
Background
Because they spend so much time with the patient and their family, nurses can affect
the care a patient receives across their lifespan up to and including their death.
The idea of a good death is not a new one. It has evolved over the years to take on
different attributes. Concept analysis can help crystalise an abstract and complex
phenomenon, like a good death.
Objective
To synthesise the concept analyses and provide a shared understanding of a good death.
Design
Synthesis review of concept analysis.
Methods
Searched PubMed, CINAHL, and Medline (Ebsco) using the terms “concept analysis,” “good
death,” and “peaceful death.”
Results
This search revealed nine concept analyses of a good death centred around an adult
population. Five analyses followed the Walker and Avant method, and four followed
the Rodgers Evolutionary method. Some of the antecedents to a good death are the preparation
for, awareness, and acceptance of death. The common attributes of a good death are
symptom control and the presence of emotional support. The consequences of a good
death are healthy bereavement for family and work satisfaction for healthcare providers.
Conclusions
The review highlights some of the paradoxes evident in a good death, making it imperative
to have a shared understanding to provide patient-centred care.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: September 19, 2022
Accepted:
August 11,
2022
Received in revised form:
July 11,
2022
Received:
February 22,
2022
Publication stage
In Press Corrected ProofIdentification
Copyright
© 2022 Australian College of Nursing Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
