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The Experiences of Muslim Family Members of Critically Ill Patients During End-of-Life Care in Saudi Arabia: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study

Author

Listed:
  • Abbas Al Mutair
  • Abdulaziz Al Shaer
  • Fay Al Ghamdi
  • Arwa Al Ghamdi

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the needs, beliefs, and practices of Muslim family members during the end-of-life care for a family member in the intensive care unit (ICU) in Saudi Arabia. This was a phenomenological study using in-depth individual interviews to gather data. Ten family members of adult ICU patients receiving end-of-life care were interviewed. The experiences of family members during end-of-life care were reflected in four major themes: (a) the spirituality of death, (b) family’s need for information, (c) being there, and (d) the ICU environment. Participants placed high value on religious practices such as prayer, and appreciated when these practices could be accommodated in the ICU. Family participants also detailed their need for frequent communication and opportunities to ask questions about the care of their critically ill loved one. Being able to spend as much time as desired in close proximity to the critically ill patient particularly as the end of life approaches was also important, with participants suggesting that visitation times should be waived. Finally, family participant suggested that changes were needed to the ICU environment to make accommodating large families easier and more comfortable particularly when they wish to spend significant time at the bedside of their loved one. Family should be prioritized as an extension of the care provided to critically ill ICU patients, particularly those approaching end of life. A model of care should be introduced to deliver supportive and holistic care during the end-of-life care journey, supported by appropriate education regarding family care at the end of life.

Suggested Citation

  • Abbas Al Mutair & Abdulaziz Al Shaer & Fay Al Ghamdi & Arwa Al Ghamdi, 2020. "The Experiences of Muslim Family Members of Critically Ill Patients During End-of-Life Care in Saudi Arabia: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study," Clinical Nursing Research, , vol. 29(6), pages 375-381, July.
  • Handle: RePEc:sae:clnure:v:29:y:2020:i:6:p:375-381
    DOI: 10.1177/1054773818788969
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Melissa J Bloomer & Ruth Endacott & Kristen Ranse & Maureen A Coombs, 2017. "Navigating communication with families during withdrawal of life‐sustaining treatment in intensive care: a qualitative descriptive study in Australia and New Zealand," Journal of Clinical Nursing, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 26(5-6), pages 690-697, March.
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