Concept of unbearable suffering needs to be better understood by nurses

Commentary on: Ortega-Galán ÁM, Ruiz-Fernández MD, Roldán-Rodríguez L, et al. Unbearable suffering: a concept analysis. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2022; 24(3):159–166. Implications for practice and research Unbearable suffering (U-Suffering) is an important determinant for spiritual distress, loss of dignity and euthanasia requests. Further research is required to develop a deep and comprehensive definition, as well as the ability to use the concept empirically. Context The study starts with the discussion about the legalisation of euthanasia in Spain, and aims to analyse the concept of U-Suffering as a foundation for the development of a new nursing diagnosis.1 Suffering is deeply connected with human existence, and its relief is a pivotal outcome for nurses and other healthcare providers. However, the assessment of a patient’s suffering (and whether it is unbearable) is one of the most difficult requirements to form a judgement on.2...
Source: Evidence-Based Nursing - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Commentary Source Type: research