7 / 17
Page 59
Journal of Clinical & Experimental Pharmacology | ISSN: 2161-1459 | Volume: 8
International Conference on
July 18-19, 2018 | Atlanta, USA
Pharmacology and Ethnopharmacology
11
th
International Conference and Exhibition on
Pharmaceutical Oncology
&
Decision-making of cancer patients about end-of-life: The lived experience
Angela Katrina G Fonte
The Medical City, Philippines
U
nderstanding the perception of an end-stage cancer patient about end-of-life decision making can help the patient’s relatives,
healthcare providers, and the person himself or herself in attaining the best quality of life in their exit event. The aim of this study
is to deeply gain an understanding of the voice and feelings of stage 4 cancer patients in making decisions for end-of-life. The study
was conducted using a qualitative phenomenological approach. Five participants who are of sound mind and able to make rational
decisions shared their preferences. The participants were selected using a non-probability, criterion, purposive sampling. Data were
gathered through the use of a semi-structured interview. Four major themes emerged from the analysis of the data. The themes were
leaving protracted misery, divesting the burden, feeling of complacency and living in a former time. These themes encircle mainly
on the issue of a cycle of suffering and prolonging one’s agony with the use of life-saving measures which can reduce the quality of
life. Findings of the study revealed that end-of-life decision making is encapsulated with different factors which include physical
discomfort and exhaustion, emotional distress, spiritual dilemma and financial burden. Recommendations include educational
training for nurses about end-of-life care and discussion of ethical issues, culturally competent care, and management of patients
who are facing end-of-life decision making. It is also recommended that physicians should take the lead and explore the end-of-life
preferences of patients and their families.
katrinafonte@yahoo.com.phClin Exp Pharmacol 2018, Volume: 8
DOI: 10.4172/2161-1459-C1-029