The “good death”: Perceptions of health personnel in Francophone Switzerland

Aims: To describe perceptions of “good death” among health personnel working in nursing homes in French-speaking Switzerland, and to identify differential explanatory factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study with a self-administered questionnaire, adapted from the New Measure of the Concept of Good Death, was carried out among health personnel in five nursing homes (two in Geneva and three in Valais) in spring 2004. One hundred and sixty-one persons participated at the study representing over 90% of the personnel contacted. Results: Four things were considered hallmarks of “good death” by more than 80% of respondents: pain control, serenity and peace, the presence of family members or close friends, and the respect of final wishes. Up to 70% also considered the following elements important: the support of health professionals, the opportunity to communicate one’s values, and access to spiritual and/or religious support. Around 50% of respondents also considered it important “to be able to choose the place of death,” “to have time to prepare oneself,” “to stay conscious to the end,” and “to have control over body functions.” These perceptions vary according to place of work, sex, training in palliative care, professional experience, and of the number of deaths respondents have dealt with. Conclusion: There seem to be converging opinions among health personnel on what “good death” is. Public health decisions makers need to be aware of this.