Nursing Rituals for Dying and Deceased Patients in Hospitals of the Republic of Croatia

The aim of this research was to examine the end- of-life rituals performed by nurses in hospitals in the Republic of Croatia, considering historical, social, and cultural contexts. A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with nine nurses working in three hospitals at the secondary level of healthcare. The study explored their personal and professional practices beyond standardized proto- cols. The findings revealed diverse rituals, such as opening windows to “release the soul,” prayers, and physical care for the deceased. These practices are influenced by cultural traditions, religious beliefs, and personal values, and contribute to nurses’ emotional coping with death. The study highlights the importance of understanding cultural and personal dimensions of end-of-life care, suggesting that these practices contribute to holistic nursing and the emotional well-being of healthcare providers. Further research is needed to explore these practices across broader settings.