Assessing Palliative Care Educational Needs of Physicians and Nurses: Results of a Survey. Greater Victoria Hospital Society Palliative Care Committee

The Greater Victoria Hospital Society (GVHS) Palliative Care Committee surveyed medical and nursing staff from four hospitals and The Victoria Hospice Society in February, 1993. The purpose of the survey was to identify physicians' and nurses' perceived educational needs related to death and dying. Programs that focus on the dying process; patient pain, symptom, and comfort control; and patient and family support were identified as necessary to meet the educational needs of physicians and nurses in providing quality palliative care. Physicians and nurses identified communication skills as being paramount. Communications concerning ethical issues were highlighted as the most difficult to cope with.