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An analysis of provider attitudes toward end-of-life decision-makingHealth Administration, Graduate School of Management, Marshall University, South Charleston, West Virginia
Augusta State University, Augusta, Georgia The explosion of technological and biomedical interventions over the past half century appears to have enhanced the medical professions ability to prolong life at a faster pace than societys ability to develop comprehensive bioethical laws governing end-of-life decisions. This study was conducted to determine if there was a correlation between educational and occupational backgrounds and participants perceptions of end-of-life care. Study participants came from various areas and levels of healthcare at a large federal healthcare facility and included nurses, doctors, pharmacists, dietitians, administrators, and others. Participants completed a questionnaire providing both sociodemographic information and perceptions of end-of-life care. Respondents were classified by type of education or background (technical, professional, or medical) and by level of involvement with patient care (direct or indirect). While the results showed a general consensus about the importance of respecting patients end-of-life wishes, there were differences among respondents in regard to specific issues.
Key Words: end-of-life decisions patients rights advance directives
American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine®, Vol. 20, No. 5,
371-381 (2003) This article has been cited by other articles:
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