The use of dispute resolution tools and protocols in conflict situations regarding palliative care: An analysis of the attitudes of healthcare professionals in Ireland

Abstract

Conflict resolution strategies are an essential tool to resolve conflict when there are differences of opinion between individuals. Palliative care is an evolving modality of end-of-life care, based on a model of complete, active and holistic care provided to patients with advanced and terminal illnesses and their families, legitimised by the patient’s right to die with dignity. The aim of this investigation is to explore how dispute resolution tools and protocols are used by healthcare professionals in conflict situations with patients and family members in relation to terminal illness. To achieve this objective, a survey was carried out to analyse the attitudes of healthcare professionals in Ireland towards palliative care, and to identify possible barriers to such healthcare. A survey was devised using Google Forms with twenty-five questions, both closed and open, to gather all the relevant data for this research. This study has used a combination of methods, both qualitative and quantitative, as well as descriptive and transversal techniques and procedures. Through an analysis of all the data collected, it was observed there were misunderstandings about how to address a conflict situation due to the doubts, fears and lack of knowledge of the participants in their professional experiences. As a result, it was identified that most participants believe that when conflict arises it can be caused by a lack of knowledge regarding conflict resolution leading to communication failure. A greater understanding on the part of individuals on how to improve communication and better express themselves would help to improve the results in a conflict resolution situation.