Canadian Nursing Students’ Experiences With Medical Assistance in Dying

Abstract

The recent introduction of medical assistance in dying (MAiD) has significant implications for health care workers, nurse educators, and society at large. Nursing students are being asked to participate directly or indirectly with a medically assisted death. Little is known about nursing students’ experiences with or attitudes towards MAiD in Canada. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of fourth-year nursing students in caring for patients who choose MAiD. The aim was to understand students’ perceptions of their educational preparation regarding MAiD and identify potential gaps in existing knowledge and skills. A qualitative design and thematic analysis were used. Nine senior nursing students were interviewed using semi-structured questions. Themes and corresponding sub-themes were inductively developed and include a) role confusion (where do student nurses fit? and fear of saying the wrong thing); b) honouring patient autonomy (nurse as advocate—not judge, and MAiD as “normal” nursing); c) professional tensions (entangled emotions and intellect, and surfacing hidden values); d) students’ recommendations for education. Nursing students report support and interest in having opportunities to participate in MAiD. Nevertheless, they feel ill equipped and perceive nurses are also unclear about their roles and responsibilities in the provision of MAiD.