Lived experiences of Canadian women with metastatic breast cancer in preparation for their death: a qualitative study. Part I--preparations and consequences.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to detail the tasks of death preparation and the consequences of such preparation for women with metastatic breast cancer.
METHODS: A phenomenological qualitative approach was used. Five women with metastatic breast cancer were interviewed on two occasions. Themes were analyzed, described, and validated, until saturation was met. Outcomes of thematic analysis related to the impetus, process, and consequences of preparing for one's own death.
FINDINGS: The women prepared for their death by: acknowledging their grief; preparing mentally; seeking information and support; preparing the family; and preparing for the end of life. They also engaged in creating life projects that enhanced their connections with loved ones, and lived full and joyful lives. These activities helped increased their readiness to die in peace.
CONCLUSIONS: Preparing for their own death can help women with incurable cancer live full, satisfying lives, and be prepared to face their own death with peace. Helping women express their feelings around their own death and their preparation for death should be a key interdisciplinary psychosocial nursing intervention.