Objectives: To describe the family meeting in palliative and end-of-life care, highlighting the role of the oncology nurse. Specific strategies will be provided for pre-meeting preparation, communication, and follow-up activities.
Data sources: A conceptual framework drawn from family and communication theory, and best practices from the clinical, research, nursing, and palliative care literature.
Conclusion: Working with patients and families is complex, but the family meeting is a promising tool and a potential quality indicator in palliative care.
Implications for nursing practice: The nurse is well positioned to participate fully in every aspect of the family meeting.
Keywords: advance care planning; communication; conflict resolution; decision-making; family caregiver; family meeting.
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