Therapeutic Futility in Nursing: A Focus Group. (October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Vieira, João V.; Deodato, Sérgio; Mendes, Felismina
• Is Part Of: SAGE open nursing. Volume 8(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-10
• Subjects: critical care nursing -- ethics -- futility -- intensive care units -- nursing; Nursing -- Periodicals; 610.7305
• DOI: 10.1177/23779608221134768
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2377-9608

Abstract

Introduction: The implementation of futile nursing interventions seems to be a persistent problem in adult intensive care units. Understanding this phenomenon can contribute to its prevention and all deleterious effects associated with it.Objective: To identify the perceptions of expert nurses from adult intensive care units about therapeutic futility in nursing.Methods: This study consists of a conventional content analysis. Data was collected through a focus group interview that included five expert nurses in adult intensive care, with a minimum of fifteen years of professional experience in intensive care. To analyze the information, the technique of thematic categorical analysis was used, according to Bardin.Results: Four central categories were identified for the topic under study, for which several subcategories were identified that allow a better understanding of this phenomenon.Conclusion: Adult intensive care expert nurses advocate that therapeutic futility in nursing is a reality perceived by teams and families, which should be avoided due to the risk of potentiating the implementation of ethically reprehensible care.