Index of Competence in Palliative Care Among Staff Nurses in Government Hospitals

Abstract

Palliative care is a vital component of holistic healthcare that aims to improve the quality of life of patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families through the comprehensive management of physical, psychosocial, emotional, and spiritual concerns. Nurses play a crucial role in delivering palliative care, as they maintain the most direct and continuous contact with patients and their families. However, variations in training, clinical experience, and professional exposure may influence nurses’ competence in providing such care. This study determined the Index of Competence in Palliative Care (ICPC) among staff nurses working in selected government hospitals in Eastern Pangasinan, Philippines. The study employed a descriptive correlational research design involving 109 staff nurses selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire validated by a panel of experts. Descriptive statistics, t-test, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Pearson correlation were utilized to analyze the data at the 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that staff nurses demonstrated a high level of competence in palliative care, with a grand overall weighted mean of 4.756, interpreted as “Very Competent.” Competence was evident across key domains, including quality of life, symptom management, emotional and psychological support, spiritual and existential care, care coordination, family and caregiver support, and individualized care. Significant differences were found in selected domains when grouped by sex and monthly income, while no significant differences were observed across other profile variables. The results highlight the need for continuous professional development and structured training programs. Consequently, the CARES Program (Compassionate and Advanced Responsive Education in Palliative Care for Staff Nurses) was proposed to further enhance nurses’ competencies in holistic palliative care delivery.