Nurses' Attitudes Towards Assisted Suicide in Nursing Homes: A Qualitative Interview Study

Objective To explore the attitudes of nurses towards assisted suicide in nursing homes and to derive the potential role for nurses and the required conditions. Methods From August to November 2022, 13 nurses from six nursing homes were recruited to take part in guide-based individual interviews. The qualitative data analysis was carried out through objective hermeneutics. Results Six case structures were generated with a focus on emotional stress, desire for self-reflection, helplessness due to a lack of legal regulations, acceptance of responsibility, differentiation and role assumption. Conclusion Assisted suicide implies a great deal of insecurity among nurses. There is a need for clarification and a desire for a clear legal framework. The study shows that the decision to support assisted suicide is individual and should always be made voluntarily.