The effect of professional education on medical and nursing students’ attitudes toward death

Abstract

This qualitative study aims to reveal the effect of professional education on medical and nursing students’ attitudes toward death. The study was carried out with nursing and medical students (N = 197). Research data was collected through semi-structured interview questions and 23 focus group interviews. The data was assessed using thematic analysis method. The themes were evaluated within the context of perception of death, ethical dilemmas, and, death education. To achieve professional competency in attitudes toward death, it is imperative to form a common educational curriculum and practice that would help students develop a mutual language and value system about death.