Keywords

End-of-life care, Nurse practitioners

 

Authors

  1. Tyree, Tammy L. MS, CRNP, CCRN
  2. Long, Carol O. PhD, RN
  3. Greenberg, Edward A. PhD

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore how nurse practitioners (NPs) approach end-of-life (EOL) care. A modified version of the End-of-Life Decision Questionnaire was distributed to NPs attending the 2001 National Conference for Nurse Practitioners in Baltimore, MD. Findings indicate that the majority of NPs had initiated EOL discussions in their career. Education and experience contribute significantly to the comfort level of NPs who initiate EOL discussions. Nurse practitioners also feel that additional education as well as experience would enhance their ability to initiate EOL discussions.