ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to identify types of care needs for hospice patients through Q- methodology. METHOD: Twenty three Q-statements were selected through in-depth interviews of hospice patients. Data were collected from 20 hospice patients by sorting 23 Q-statements into 9 points standard and then analyzed using PC QUANL program. RESULT: Type 1 was named 'the need for pain control type' and patients of this type had the greatest need of physical care to be free of pain and be comfortable. Type 2 was named 'the need for love and intimacy type' and patients of this type would like to share love and intimacy with their family members. Type 3 was named 'the needs for reliance on an Absolute Being type' and patients of this type would like to receive forgiveness from their God and prayers. Type 4 was named 'the need for accomplishment and service type' and patients of this type would like to complete their on going work and to give service to others. CONCLUSION: The study result could be basic data to perform effective nursing interventions for satisfying the care needs of hospice patients.