This study aimed to: (1) explore Chinese nursing interns’ perspectives on a “good death” through their participation in the Heart to Heart Tea House; (2) derive insights for nursing education; and (3) inform the improvement of end-of-life care narratives in China.
Methods
Using convenience sampling, 24 nursing interns participated in the Heart to Heart Tea House activity in eight groups of three. Each group engaged in facilitated discussions centered around three self-selected cards. All dialogue was recorded verbatim and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis until data saturation was reached, with no new themes emerging from subsequent interviews.
Results
Four main themes emerged: (1) emphasis on autonomy and dignity in end-of-life care, (2) natural acceptance of death and reflections on life’s meaning, (3) the need for comfort and physical care in the terminal stage, and (4) considerations of social relationships and emotional support. The interns highlighted the importance of respecting individual choices, maintaining dignity, achieving a peaceful state of mind, managing physical symptoms, and fulfilling emotional expressions.
Conclusion
The Heart to Heart Tea House proved to be an effective platform for nursing interns to reflect on and articulate their views regarding a good death. The findings offer valuable guidance for developing targeted nursing education programs and enhancing patient-centered end-of-life care services, emphasizing the significance of integrating such initiatives into healthcare practice.
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