Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe the quality of hospice care evaluated by the family members of one residential hospice institution. The study represents the first systematic research about the quality of hospice care in Finland. The data were collected from 91 family members of Terhokoti Hospice patients 6 months after the patient died. It was based on the Humane Terminal Caring Scale and thematic interviews in the period 2005-2006. Most of the respondents found that the quality of hospice care was excellent. Privacy, time spent together, up-to-date information, a positive atmosphere, care shown to the patient, the opportunity to contribute to the care, and being present at the time of death created a feeling of a safe and caring environment. The negative factors identified were the use of double rooms, lack of staff, and gaps in the knowledge of staff. More time for farewells after death is needed. High-quality care entails that members of staff are well trained and willing to create a connection with both patients and family. The time after death is particularly important, and it is vital that family members are allowed time for unhurried goodbyes.