Group Activity developed by Prof. Renée Walters, Boise State UniversityNurses play an important role in ensuring the sanctity and dignity of patients from birth to death. End-of-life care is our final act of caring for our patient. This activity is designed to explore your understanding of the different cultural beliefs and practices of your patients.  For this project we are going to specifically explore the practices commonly found in India.  

Pre-Work: Read and Review the ANA Position Statement on Nurses Roles and Responsibilities with End of Life Care and Code of Ethics.

Discussion Board: Each group will complete and post: Provide an overview of the beliefs and practices related to death and dying in Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, and Buddhism:

Discuss common rituals, prayers, and customs associated with end-of-life care in each religion.

Each group will address and create:

• an overview of common rituals, prayer, and customs associated with end-of-life care in their assigned community..
• 3 unique case scenarios that will highlight the assigned religious/philosophical backgrounds expectations around end-of-life care. Case studies will address practical aspects of end-of-life care, such as communication with family members, decision-making processes, and pain management. 

Read and respond to the other post. Contribute additional insight, data, and/or EBP to expand on the available body of knowledge. 

Post-Work

Reflection : each student will reflect their own cultural biases and assumptions, and how these may impact their decision making and feelings related to end-of-life care.