A support group for nursing assistants: Caring for nursing home residents at the end life (CE)

Certified nursing assistants (CNAS) provide the hands-on care to residents in nursing homes, often developing close relationships with those in their care. The current study used a support program model to explore CNAS’ feelings, experiences, and needs when caring for the dying. Special attention was given to the experience of caring for residents who opted not to continue life-sustaining treatment. Second, the efficacy of this type of support program for CNAS was examined. Care of the dying elicited complex reactions: most CNAS reported that caring for dying residents can be a very rewarding experience. At the same time, most thought that caring for a dying person is always emotionally draining. Moreover, CNAS said they felt sad and felt stressed at least some of the time when caring for the dying. CNAS participated openly in the discussion and expressed positive feelings about participating in this type of support program. (Geriatr Nurs 2001;22:299-305)