Palliative Care

Structured family meetings improve caregiver preparedness for imminent death in a Saudi tertiary palliative unit

In seven caregivers interviewed 2–5 days after a protocolised family meeting, clear prognostic information reduced uncertainty and psychological distress. Direct, compassionate disclosure with stepwise foreshadowing aided understanding and acceptance of imminent death. Religious framing aligned with Islamic beliefs helped provide meaning and guided spiritually oriented bedside care. Caregivers valued practical advice about recognising dying signs and interacting with unresponsive patients, which increased caregiving confidence. 1

Metasynthesis: relational nursing practices preserve dignity and support families as units of care

Thirteen qualitative studies (2014–2024) show palliative care experience is dynamic and heavily shaped by relational presence. Family caregivers experience substantial burden worsened by limited support, constrained resources, and poor communication with teams. Dignity and patient identity depend on everyday nursing interactions and organisational context. Nursing practice should systematically integrate relational competencies to uphold autonomy and support family-centred care. 2

Palliative radiotherapy use clusters with inpatient radiation oncology consultations near end of life

This cohort examined associations between palliative radiotherapy use and inpatient radiation oncology consultation among patients with limited life expectancy. Findings highlight patterns of service integration between palliative care and radiation oncology near death. Results raise questions about drivers of radiotherapy near end of life and the need to align treatments with goals of care. Clinicians should verify prognosis and patient-centered goals before pursuing palliative radiotherapy in the final weeks of life. 3