The Phenomenon of End-of-Life Dreams and Visions Through the Eyes of Nurses

Witnessing end-of-life dreams and visions (ELDVs) in dying patients is a profound experience for nurses, often evoking awe, humility, and a sense of privilege. Eight nurses from Western Massachusetts described themselves as guides during the dying process, providing emotional and spiritual support. Despite being recorded for centuries, ELDVs remain a taboo topic; nurses hesitate to share their experiences due to fears of judgment and dismissal.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This article presents findings from a qualitative phenomenological study exploring the lived experience of nurses who have witnessed end-of-life dreams and visions (ELDVs) of dying patients. Using Seidman's Three-Interview Series, conducted asynchronously via email, eight nurses from Western Massachusetts contributed six comprehensive and two partial experiential accounts. The study revealed that witnessing these deathbed phenomena was a profound experience, often accompanied by feelings of awe, humility, and a deep sense of privilege. Participants described themselves as guides during the dying process, providing emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families. Though ELDVs have been recorded for centuries, nurses often remain hesitant to share their experiences due to the lingering taboo surrounding the topic, fueled by fears of judgment and the risk of their experiences being minimized, invalidated, or dismissed.