Hostel staff views on palliative care for homeless people when dying at home isn't possible

Seven hostel staff members provided insights from 37 case studies involving homeless residents with life-limiting conditions.

• Eight main themes were identified regarding hostel staff perspectives on palliative care.
• Understanding of palliative care among staff is limited, impacting their ability to provide adequate support.
• Challenges include dealing with insufficient medical information and the need to take responsibility for residents' care.
• Building rapport and upholding residents' dignity are crucial aspects of the care process.
• Physical deterioration of residents is recognized as a significant concern by hostel staff.
• Environmental challenges and professional boundaries are perceived as limitations to effective palliative care.

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