The transformation of nurses in holding and containing: A reflective group for end-of-life care

Background: Caring for dying patients is an emotional burden for nurses. Purpose: This study used reflective groups to explore the process of transition that nurses go through in caring for dying patients. Methods: We adopted a phenomenological approach. Data were collected from nurses participating in 12 reflective groups. All nurses worked in oncology/hospice units in a general hospital in Taipei. We used thematic analysis to analyze data. Results: Findings identified a transition in how nurses handled and contained their emotions within three main themes: (1) containing unpredictable reality, (2) cautious "holding back" in discussion, and (3) self-cultivation in order to serve others. These findings led us to extrapolate the three issues of wounded healer, facing others, and altruism in caring. Conclusions/Implications for practice: This study represented the holding and containing of nurses in caring for dying patients and held group dialogues to facilitate reflection. Findings will be used to facilitate nurse self-awareness and improve end-of-life care quality.