James C. Pace

The evolution of palliative care nursing education

The art and science of the palliative care nursing specialty evolved from time-tested, holistic care practices and key historical events that enhanced awareness of the need for improving care of the dying. Currently, the palliative care team can make significant contributions to patients and families who are facing the final stages of life or other stressful life events that may be mitigated by palliative care interventions. This article traces the trends, precedents, and leadership that have influenced the development of palliative care nursing education. Standards of care, curriculum innovations, and clinical practice guidelines have facilitated the development of high-quality curricula. The article emphasizes the importance of advanced practice and scholarly education to ensure high-quality and evidence-based care for individuals, families, and communities who face significant challenges and suffering related to serious, often chronic, illnesses and end-of-life issues.

Rituals at End-of-Life.

Understanding the significance of rituals at the end-of-life enables health care professionals to offer meaningful and compassionate interventions that enhance quality of life and support those dying and those who grieve. Rituals contribute to the strength, capacity, and health of providers who cope with death events. Rituals help the living create continuing bonds with those dying, help with coping skills, and allow healthy growth through opportunities for naming, honoring, and memorializing. The display of respect and a nonjudgmental attitude create a space for support, trust, sharing of emotion, empowerment, and quality of care during end-of-life events.

The phantom leaf effect and its implications for near-death and out-of-body experiences

The phantom leaf effect seen in Kirlian photography may help researchers better understand near-death and out-of-body experience. While the process responsible for the phantom leaf effect is unknown, variations of Rupert Sheldrakes morphogenetic field theory offer three explanations for this phenomenon. Each of these variations has different implications for near-death and out-of-body experiences.