End-of-Life Care Planning in Diverse Individuals Across Age Groups: A Proposed Conceptual Model of Nursing

Abstract

Background: End-of-life planning helps nurses meet the needs of their patients at a crucial time of life. Purpose: This article presents a conceptual model of end-of-life care planning for nurses, especially those in palliative and hospice care, focusing on holistic nursing views. Methods: Based on a literature review, we developed a new conceptual model illustrating the concepts and dimensions of end-of-life care planning among diverse individuals across countries, life spans and age groups, ethnographies, and residential statuses. Results: This conceptual model includes 3 concepts: personal factors, stakeholders, and environmental and social factors. Each concept encompasses multiple dimensions. The concepts are interrelated and directly related to end-of-life care planning. Conclusion: This work addresses the need for a comprehensive end-of-life care planning model and can help enhance the quality of end-of-life care. This article identifies implications for nursing education, practice, and research.