SURROGATE DECISION MAKING AT END OF LIFE: SOURCES OF BURDEN AND RELIEF

Abstract

In order to gain insight into the process of end-of-life decision making, 9 surrogates were interviewed about the sources of their decision-making burden. Surrogates talked most about a category labeled "background story." It was hypothesized that this involved an "account making process." Surrogates defined their decision-making task as needing to understand what their patient would have wanted and then acting accordingly. Decision-making burden was reduced by (a) helpful information from professionals and compassionate care, (b) agreeable and supportive family members, and (c) knowledge of patients' quality of life. Suggested interventions for professionals include being an audience for surrogates' stories.