Inducing a sense of worthiness in patients: the basis of patient-centered palliative care for cancer patients in Iran

Background: Patient-centered care is one of the main components in providing palliative care for cancer patients. This issue has been the subject of numerous studies and practices in nursing for many years. Few studies, however, have explored the perception of nurses about patient-centered treatments. This study aimed at exploring the perception of care-providers about offering patient-centered care to cancer patients. Method: For attaining that aim, 18 care-providers were purposefully selected for an interview which allowed the researchers to explore the enriched experiences of these participants about offering patient-centered palliative care to cancer patients. After transcribing the recorded data, analysis was carried out based on Graneheim and Lundman’s method of content analysis. The research was qualitative in nature and conducted in 2019 in Iran. Results: From content analysis, 3 main categories; considering patient’s spirituality, maintaining patient’s dignity during care, and reducing patient’s suffering, were found. The essence of these categories reflect on the care-providers’ consideration and effort in “inducing a sense of worthiness” in patients by providing patient-centered care. These categories also reflect on the perspective of care-providers about nurse- patient relationship for providing high qualified palliative care. Conclusion: For providing patient-centered care inducing a sense of worthiness in patients, is the most fundamental component in providing palliative care to cancer patients. Therefore, by considering the structures and settings where the care is to be provided in the healthcare system, it is possible to direct the necessary educational, research, and administrative programs related to inducing a sense of worthiness in patients towards providing a more effective palliative care.