Sammanfattning
Background: Research and white papers highlight the possibility for patients in the palliative
phase to stay at home despite a high level of symptom burden. Purpose: This study describes the
experiences in relatives when cancer patients want to spend the last days of their lives at home.
Methods: The study has a qualitative design and in-depth interviews were performed to gather data.
Results: The sample consists of seven individual interviews with family caregivers representing
different positions in the family. Four main themes emerged: (i) valuable time at home for the parties
involved, (ii) being available all day and night, (iii) relief of the patients' symptoms and fulfilment of
their desires, (iv) experiences and follow-up from the health care system. A synthesis reveals the
concepts responsibility and dependence. Conclusion: relatives dealing with palliative care at home
have a strong engagement and need stamina to handle complex physical and psychological
demands and suffering. Additionally, relatives in this study describe a high level of responsibility as
well as being dependent on support from the health care system.