Advances in quality of life at the end of life

Abstract

Objectives: To provide an overview of the developments in promoting quality of life (QOL) at the end of life (EOL) in oncology settings, to describe implications for clinical care for cancer patients at the EOL, and to address the continuing challenges for assessing QOL at the EOL.

Data sources: Published articles, clinical guidelines, and web resources.

Conclusion: QOL continues to be an important aspect of patient care at the EOL. Nursing has made substantial contributions to the literature on QOL at the EOL through instrument development, clinical care priorities, and research.

Implications for nursing practice: Oncology nurses practicing in clinical and research settings must be aware of the importance of QOL assessment for terminally ill cancer patients, be informed about the process of selecting relevant QOL measures for the EOL, and apply current knowledge to quality cancer care.