Graduation Term
2022
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Mennonite College of Nursing
Committee Chair
Kim KA Astroth
Abstract
This study aimed to explore African American family members’ needs and experiences during their loved one’s end-of-life. In Chapter 1, a literature review was conducted to review the current state of the literature regarding African American family members’ needs and experiences during their loved one’s end-of-life. Chapter 2 includes a qualitative exploratory study of African American family members’ needs and experiences during their loved one’s end-of-life. The study sample consisted of family members of African Americans being cared for through services provided by an outpatient palliative care facility in the Southeastern United States. Family members answered five open-ended interview questions via a telephone interview. Inclusion criteria were participants with a significant relationship with a patient at the end of life, including parents, grandson/granddaughter, siblings, children, spouse, or other family relationships, were African American, and were 18 years or older. Four themes emerged from participant responses: Reliance on God, poor communication regarding their loved one’s health, wanting more time and having emotional reactions. Underlying subthemes were identified within each section. Chapter 3 includes a review of policy perspectives and initiatives.
Access Type
Dissertation-Open Access
Recommended Citation
Obringer, Kelley, "African American Family Members’ Needs and Experiences during a Loved One’s End-of-Life" (2022). Theses and Dissertations. 1699.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/etd/1699
DOI
https://doi.org/10.30707/ETD2023.20230711063202575583.999952