Role of the Nursing Professional in Euthanasia: A Qualitative Systematic Review

Background Until the date of the search, Euthanasia was legally accepted in 5 countries: the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Canada and Colombia. Objective We aimed to identify the role of nurses in euthanasia based on articles published both nationally and internationally between 2014 and 2022. Methods Qualitative and quantitative studies, editorials, literature reviews and Colombian regulations were included. Publications that did not meet the criteria of the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology statement and the Spanish Critical Appraisal Skills Programme were excluded. In total, 57 articles were evaluated and 19 were selected. Appropriate copyright principles were followed in accordance with Colombian Law 23 of 1982. Results With the data obtained, 4 thematic categories were developed as follows: reception and management of euthanasia requests and regulations in Colombia; emotional accompaniment and effective communication with the patient and family; participation in euthanasia preparations and administration of medications; and management of requests and administration of medications. Conclusion Nursing plays an important role in the care of the patient requesting euthanasia, from the reception and management of the request to the administration of the lethal drugs.