Healthcare Professionals’ Experiences in Providing Palliative Care in an Intensive Care Unit in Indonesia: A Phenomenological Study

Background: In the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), it is vital to meticulously monitor symptoms and thoroughly understand the treatment objectives for critically ill patients. This highlights the necessity of integrating palliative care in this environment. Despite the potential advantages, several barriers impede the effective integration of palliative care in the ICU. Notably, many healthcare professionals (HCPs) in Indonesian ICUs have not fully leveraged the incorporation of palliative care.
Purpose: This study aimed to investigate and clarify the experiences of healthcare providers (HCPs) involved in administering palliative care to ICU patients in Indonesia.
Methods: This research employed a qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach. Semi-structured, in-depth individual interviews were conducted with four nurses and three doctors working in an Indonesian hospital. Colaizzi’s method was used for data analysis.
Results: The analysis identified six themes from the interviews, reflecting the experiences of healthcare professionals in delivering palliative care in the ICU. These themes are: 1) Provide Professional Caring, 2) Caring and curing collaboration, 3) Quality Intensive Communication, 4) End-of-Life Care, 5) Controlling Feelings, and 6) Provide Holistic Caring.
Conclusion: Providing care for ICU patients demands not only the expertise of HCPs but also compassion, communication skills, and a holistic approach to patient care. By offering comprehensive palliative care in the ICU, healthcare professionals can address the diverse needs of patients and their families, promoting comfort, respect, and an improved quality of life throughout the illness. This inclusive approach enhances the experience for both patients and their families while supporting healthcare providers in delivering empathetic and patient-centered care. It is recommended that hospitals develop policies to enhance palliative care services in Indonesia.