Abstract
The aim of the study was to explore the following research question: What are the perceived needs of family members/friends while their loved one is receiving end-of-life care while in the hospital setting? This was a qualitative descriptive study using semistructured open-ended interview questions and content analysis. Seven family members or friends participated in this study. Four themes were identified. Results suggest that vigilance in the provision of nursing care for patients at the end of life provides family with a sense of being cared for and eases their feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. Support for family members and validation of difficult decision making is a vital component of communication, which is essential to increase family members' levels of comfort and trust in the health care team.