Nursing students’ perceptions of assisted dying: a qualitative study

Assisted dying became a legal choice in November 2021 following the passing of the End of Life Choice Act (2019) in New Zealand. This new means of dying allows individuals to pursue the right to die should they meet the legislated criteria. The availability of assisted dying raises questions regarding nursing practices and responsibilities in relation to the service. The aim of this study was to gain insight into nursing students’ views about assisted dying in Aotearoa New Zealand. A qualitative descriptive study using a qualitative survey with a paper-based questionnaire was undertaken among nursing students enrolled in a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) programme at a single tertiary education organisation in 2019. Responses from 192 students were analysed using content analysis. Three categories were identified: supportive on the basis of personal choice; disapproval on the basis of personal beliefs; and taking a professional stand as a nurse. The categories present the distinct and opposing views expressed by nursing students regarding assisted dying, with the extent of support or disapproval being supported by their recognition of personal autonomy, their own belief systems and their views of roles expected of nurses. This research highlighted that nursing students’ views about assisted dying were influenced by both personal and professional factors, and at times these were dichotomous. Ethical and practice challenges concerning assisted dying must be recognised and acknowledged. The nursing education sector should include topics related to assisted dying in the curricula and work with students to, where necessary, reconcile any ethical issues that arise. This will ensure that future nurses are prepared and equipped with knowledge and skills in providing care to patients and families considering or requesting assisted dying.