Kommunikation med barn i livets slutskede och deras närstående : En litteraturöversikt

Sammanfattning

Background Children in the final stages of life are particulary vulnerable as the desease affects them at the same time as they develop both fysically and emotionally. The nurse therefore has a central role in adapting information, creating security and providing support to both the child and the relatives. Aim Nurses experiences of communication in encounters with children in the final stages of life and their relatives. Method The thesis is a structured litterature review with elements of the methodology used in systematic reviews. The results were based on 15 qualitative articles. Results The nurses experienced communication with children in the final stages of life as complex and required adaptation based on the childes age and maturity. The relationship between nurses, children and relatives is important. Experience and clear guidelines were shown to improve communication. Conclusions Nurses need to adapt communication to the childs needs and maturity. A balance between honestly and protection creates security but can be emontionally demanding. Knowledge, support and clear guidelines strengthen the abbility to provide safe care in the final stages of life.