Near-death experience: A concept analysis

Near-death experiences are profound conscious events that can transform individuals' lives. Nurses often lack sufficient knowledge about these experiences, which are increasingly reported by critically ill patients. This concept analysis uses Walker and Avant's framework to clarify the definition, characteristics, antecedents, and consequences of near-death experiences. The characteristics include cognitive, affective, paranormal, and transcendental components. People who have these experiences undergo transformational changes and need support from healthcare workers, especially nurses, to integrate the experience early. Understanding the concept enables nurses to provide interventions that promote positive well-being.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Background & Aim: The incidence of near-death experience is not a novel phenomenon since human history. However, with healthcare technological advancement, near-death narratives have been reported in a greater number of critically ill patients as well as in the general community. Therefore, healthcare professionals must recognize the concept of near-death experiences and provide relevant care to their patients. Unfortunately, healthcare providers especially nurses do not have sufficient knowledge regarding near-death experiences, hence, to clarify the concept and its importance for better patient-care outcomes via this concept analysis. Methods & Materials: The understanding of the near-death phenomenon is employed through the framework of Walker and Avant's concept analysis. The study familiarizes the concept via its definition, origin, significance, characteristics, antecedents, and consequences of near-death experiences. This was achieved after deeper exploration and analysis of the concept through an extensive literature search. Furthermore, multiple cases are provided as exemplars to recognize the concept. Results: Near-death experience is defined as a profound conscious experience encountered by the individual. The characteristics of near-death experiences are based on cognitive, affective, paranormal, and transcendental components. Following the experience, the individuals undergo a transformational change in their lives. However, individuals with near-death experiences require facilitation and support from healthcare workers especially nurses for the early integration of near-death experiences. Conclusion: The understanding of the concept of near-death experience enables nurses to provide relevant nursing interventions. Such interventions promote positive well-being in the individuals’ lives through their near-death experiences.