• Yijin Wu, Linzi Li, Hang Su, Xueli Yao, and Ma Wen.
• Shandong University.
• Clin J Oncol Nurs. 2016 Feb 1; 20 (1): E16-9.

BackgroundTerminally ill patients can benefit from palliative care, including relief from physical and emotional suffering, improved quality of life, and longer survival rates. However, despite marked development in other countries, palliative care is still in its infancy in China.ObjectivesThe general population and healthcare professionals in China have yet to realize the importance of palliative care services. This article describes the status of palliative care services in China, the historic development of palliative care, and the barriers to its advancement.MethodsThe status quo of hospice and palliative care in China is reviewed, and suggestions are provided on how nurses can improve their abilities to care for patients with cancer at the end of life.FindingsA significant amount of work is needed in China to meet the standards of international palliative care societies. Palliative care training for nurses is still very limited. Nurses and other health providers who are engaged in palliative care should be well trained regarding the principles and procedures of palliative care to ensure quality care.

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