Perspectives in International Palliative Care

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To explore an international perspective on the needs and challenges for providing palliative care services, the nurse's role, and building capacity for palliative care.

DATA SOURCES: Review of the most up-to-date literature related to global palliative care, cancer and nursing.

CONCLUSION: The increase of cancer worldwide has added to the need for nurses to develop skills in palliative and end-of-life care. Despite the numerous global challenges nurses face in providing palliative care, a multitude of opportunities and organizations are available that support nurses.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Palliative care is a foundation of care for most chronic illnesses globally. Nursing practice requires an awareness of palliative care best evidence to provide expert palliative care for patients with cancer and other chronic illnesses.