Citation

Meffert C, Stößel U, Körner M, Becker G. Death Stud. 2015; 39(5): 307-315.

Affiliation

a Department of Palliative Medicine , University Medical Center Freiburg , Freiburg , Germany.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07481187.2014.951496

PMID

25848838

Abstract

The purpose of our study was to examine the perceptions of a good death among medical students, who are future care providers. The authors identified 9 domains that contribute to a good death according to first- and fifth-year medical students (N = 432). From their perspective, being free from pain and physical distress is only 1 important component of a good death, and other elements such as psychosocial issues should also be taken into account. A majority of medical students considers psychosocial well-being as a highly relevant aspect of patients' conditions. The results of this study could help to develop concepts for better care and more empathy, which are needed to ensure a good death for all patients.

Language: en