2026-10-13T17:43:55Z https://api.figshare.com/v2/oai

oai:figshare.com:article/32641464 2026-10-01T16:23:14Z portal_1172 item_type_8 month_year_10_2026

The experiences of healthcare providers and bereaved next of kin of patients regarding the provision of palliative care in adult intensive care units: an exploratory study Hamad Alshahrani (24169986) PUREID: 644271713 Palliative care in intensive care units (ICUs) enhances quality of life for critically ill patients by managing symptoms and supporting families. While countries like the US and Canada have integrated palliative care into patient-centred ICU practices, with emphasis on family involvement and cultural sensitivity, Saudi Arabia aligns its approach with Islamic values. However, challenges remain in balancing cultural expectations with clinical care. This study explored palliative care practices in adult ICUs at King Saud Medical City (KSMC), aiming to identify areas for improvement aligned with Saudi Vision 2030. Using a qualitative exploratory design grounded in symbolic interactionism, the study was conducted in two phases. Phase 1 included semi-structured interviews with healthcare providers (HCPs) and bereaved next of kin (NoK) to understand their experiences. Phase 2 involved focus groups with ICU managers and policymakers to discuss strategies for optimising care, informed by Phase 1 findings. NVivo software supported a thematic analysis of the data. Key themes emerged. From Phase 1, three main themes were identified: (1) barriers to palliative care, such as lack of trained staff and cultural constraints; (2) communication gaps, especially limited information sharing with families; and (3) future directions, including the need for staff training and more flexible family visiting policies. In Phase 2, discussions highlighted the importance of (1) holistic palliative care integration into ICU policies, (2) active family involvement in decision-making, and (3) strengthened interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure consistent care delivery. The study concludes that integrating palliative care into ICUs in Saudi Arabia faces significant barriers, including insufficient psychological support, language challenges, and cultural influences. Addressing these through targeted communication training, professional development, and organisational support will improve culturally sensitive, patient-centred ICU care. Future research should examine religious and cultural impacts on palliative care practices to guide ongoing improvement. Thesis is embargoed until 31 December 2027. 2026-10-01T16:23:14Z Text Thesis 10.17034/32641464.v1 https://figshare.com/articles/thesis/The_experiences_of_healthcare_providers_and_bereaved_next_of_kin_of_patients_regarding_the_provision_of_palliative_care_in_adult_intensive_care_units_an_exploratory_study/32641464 All Rights Reserved Open Access after 2027-12-31