Background: Previous research shows that some patients appreciate nurses and the time they receive, which increases the quality of care. However, others may find the lack of resources and time is clear. Patients mean that nurses have more competence regarding which decisions should be made, however they wish to be involved. Relatives experience that nurses make the difficult times they face easier. Relatives can react to the lack of information and that they must seek out nurses to discuss patients care. Aim: To describe nurses’ experiences of caring for patients at the end of life. Method: A general literature review according to Friberg (2022) with analysis of twelve articles in health sciences with both qualitative and quantitative approach. Results: Based on the results, four themes have been identified: “Being emotionally affected”, “Knowledge and experiences”, “Cooperation and support” and “Creating relationships”. Conclusion: Nurses’ positive experiences of end-of-life care were the relationships that were built with patients and the goal was always to strive for the best possible care. Negative experiences were lack of knowledge that resulted in uncertainty when caring. Nurses highlighted the necessity of support within the work team and emotional challenges that could follow after the end of the working day. With the right support and experience, good care can be possible.
Keywords: Experiences, knowledge, nurses, palliative care, relationships, support