Decision to withdraw life- sustaining treatments : the experience of Thai family caregivers

Article

NILMANAT, Kittikorn | SAE-CHIT, Kalaya | THAMMACHOTE, Pruksaporn

End-of-life decision-making is a complex process and more challenging when decisions are made for others. Little is known about Thai family members' involvement in decision-making to withdraw life-sustaining treatments (LSTs) from loved ones with serious illnesses. This qualitative study explores the experiences of family caregivers in Southern Thailand regarding decisions related to LST withdrawal. In-depth interviews were used to gather data from fifteen primary caregivers, who were involved in LST withdrawal decision-making. Content analysis was applied, and several techniques, such as member-checking and peer debriefing, were used to enhance trustworthiness. Four main themes were identified: facing dilemmas, weighing up options, making a consensual decision, and accepting the reality of life. The findings pointed out the significant roles played by family meetings and early end-of-life discussion in the process of decision-making to withdraw LSTs from loved ones. Further research on communication among patients' family members and health care providers is recommended.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/10497323221116796

Voir la revue «Qualitative health research, 32»

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