Family members' experiences of care of the dying in residential care homes where the Liverpool Care Pathway was used

Background: Residential care homes (RCHs) are increasingly becoming a common place of death for older people. Aim: The aim of this study was to describe family members' experiences of care of the dying in RCHs where the Liverpool care pathway for the dying patient was used. Methods: This study had a descriptive qualitative study design. Fifteen (n=15) individual interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The analysis resulted in three themes: being confident in a familiar and warm atmosphere, being involved vs not being involved in end-of-life (EoL) care, and being consoled by witnessing the health professional's endeavour to relieve suffering. Significance of results: The results indicated that taking part in a care plan seems to increase family members' feelings of involvement in EoL care. This study also highlights the family members' needs for increased possibilities for EoL discussions with the GP.