Family-perceived usefulness of a pamphlet for families of imminently dying patients: a multicenter study

ABSTRACT

<b>Purpose:</b> To clarify the family-perceived usefulness of a pamphlet for families of imminently dying patients. <b>Methods:</b> Physicians and/or nurses provided medical and practical information about the dying process using a pamphlet for families of imminently dying patients. We surveyed family members 6 months after the death of the patient about the perceived usefulness. <b>Results:</b> We sent out a questionnaire to 325 bereaved, and obtained an answer from 260 (response rate 85%). Overall, 81% reported the pamphlet to be “very useful” or “useful”. The experience reported by the bereaved included “Helped me to understand the dying process” (84%); “Helped me to understand how symptoms and changes occur” (76%), “Useful in preparation for patient's death“ (75%), “Helped me to understand the physical conditions of the patient” (75%), “Helped me to know what I can do for the patient” (74%). <b>Conclusion:</b> “A pamphlet for families of imminently dying patients” may be useful for members of an imminently dying patient's family.