Aspects of Palliative Care Nursing in the Time of COVID-19

Abstract

During this COVID-19 global pandemic, seriously ill patients rely on nurses more than ever. Providing care in the altered environment of the pandemic can be stressful for nurses and the interdisciplinary team. Faced with limited time and resources, restricted visiting of family members and loved ones, and the changing science affecting treatments, nurses are extraordinarily challenged. Fortunately, nurses can benefit from integrating palliative care nursing skills into all levels of care. Because palliative care is holistic, improves the quality of life, and focuses on both the patient and the family, it can assist nurses—from acute care to home care settings—in managing symptoms, communicating with empathy, and discussing care decisions. Importantly, despite the enormous stress of these uncertain times, nurses can take the time to care for themselves and thereby find the strength to continue caring for patients. Para citar este editorial / To reference this editorial / Para citar este editorial Butt C. Aspects of Palliative Care Nursing in the Time of COVID-19. Aquichan, 2021;21(1):e2111. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5294/aqui.2021.21.1.1

Keywords

• Coronavirus infections
• pandemic
• stress
• physiological stress
• hospice and palliative care nursing
• quality of life.