International journal of nursing studies
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While previous research has suggested that health care assistants supporting palliative care work in the community regard the provision of emotional labour as a key aspect of their role, little research has explored the experiences of family carers who are the recipients of such support. ⋯ Through their emotional labour, health care assistants perform an important role in community palliative care which is greatly valued by family carers. While recent reports have highlighted potential dangers in the ambiguity of their role, any attempts to clarify the 'boundaries' of the health care assistant role should acknowledge the advantages health care assistants can bring in bridging potential gaps between healthcare professionals and family carers.
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Caring for dying patients is stressful but an unavoidable responsibility of nurses. However, little is known about Chinese oncology nurses' experience of caring for dying cancer patients who are in their final days. ⋯ End-of-life care in China reflects and has been influenced by the traditional Chinese culture. Chinese nurses reported suffering but also benefiting from their experiences. End-of-life cancer care training is needed by Chinese oncology nurses, especially for those who are younger and less experienced.