Lived experiences of Canadian women with metastatic breast cancer in preparation for their death: a qualitative study. Part II--enabling and inhibiting factors; the paradox of death preparation.

OBJECTIVES

This study examined the essence of lived experiences of a sample of women with metastatic breast cancer in preparing themselves for their own death, with the goal of informing health provider interventions that support an acceptance of and preparation for death.

METHODS

A phenomenological qualitative approach was used. Five women with metastatic breast cancer were interviewed on two occasions. Themes were analyzed, described, and validated, until saturation was met. Qualitative outcomes of the thematic analysis related to the enabling and inhibiting factors involved in preparing for one's own death.

RESULTS

Factors that enabled and inhibited death preparation tasks in these women included: personal past death experiences; the availability of time and a place to think, learn, and work on death preparation activities; a chance to connect with others in similar situations; and personal and cultural attitudes towards death. Gaps and unmet needs within the health care system were identified. Finally, the paradoxical nature of various aspects of death preparation was highlighted.

CONCLUSIONS

Death preparation can be accomplished through enhancing supportive care from health care professionals, with beneficial outcomes for patients and families. Nurses should be conscious of the paradoxical nature of death preparation, and help women to confront and manage these.