"I have the right to determine how I die": A Qualitative Research on Chinese Cancer Patients' attitudes on Death and Demands for Good Death

Abstract

Abstract Objectives In order to expand palliative care in China and improve the quality of life and death of Chinese cancer patients, the purpose of this research is to investigate the attitudes of Chinese cancer patients toward death, as well as their requirements and expectations of a good death. MethodsPhenomenological research was used to conduct in-depth interviews and data analysis on the topic of death and good death of 16 cancer patients. Results Cancer patients' attitudes towards death can be divided into three types: open-faced, negative and pessimistic, complicated psychology of acceptance and hope; The demand for good death includes four themes and nine sub-themes: physiological needs (to relieve physical pain), psychological needs (to choose autonomy, to maintain dignity, to satisfy wishes, family hopes, and arrangements for matters related to death), spiritual needs (inner comfort), and social needs (financial situation, medical system support). Conclusion Medical staff should deeply understand the cognition and attitude of cancer patients towards death, guide patients to express their dying feelings and physical and mental needs, and strive to seek the cooperation of patients' families and other professionals, such as lawyers and psychotherapists, so as to meet patients' expectations of good death at all levels. China should increase the training of medical staff in knowledge and skills of good death, set up palliative medical institutions and improve relevant laws, safeguard patients' rights and help patients achieve good death.