Careful preparation has been vital to the success of voluntary assisted dying (VAD).

Helen McCarthy, Director of Nursing and Midwifery at Nepean Blue Mountains LHD, said VAD had been received “very positively” by patients and families.

“We’ve had really good feedback so far. Families have been very appreciative; they have found the process to be dignified and respectful,” she said.

“VAD can be quite an emotive topic and careful preparation has been key.”

Nepean Hospital undertakes preparation a week before a VAD patient is admitted to a ward to begin the process.

“During the week, managers have the opportunity to look at the roster, speak to nurses and identify those who will care for the patient during the VAD process,” Helen said.

“Any nurse who elects to be a conscientious objector is fully supported in that decision.

“Some nurses may not feel comfortable from an education perspective, so having the time for preparation gives us an opportunity to provide support. We may buddy them with another nurse who has provided this care before.

“The preparation period allows time for staff to be given information about the patient and to ask questions. This ensures that when the patient comes through, they and their family or loved ones know they are welcome and are in good hands.

“We aim to make the process as peaceful and dignified as possible within a clinical hospital setting.

“Some family members and patients might want to be together, and other families might want to leave messages in the room.

“Many patients want to wear their own clothes, and we’ve had family members bring in balloons.

“Some of our wards have beautiful views of the mountains, so we turn their beds to give patients that view.

“We care for these patients with kindness, compassion and respect. We can help make their life pass in a dignified and beautiful way, with their family and loved ones present and with acknowledgement from their family. I think that’s a very positive process for nursing to be part of.”

Helen said having a dedicated VAD team was vital to the successful introduction of VAD.

“Our staff really benefit from having a nursing coordinator who is able to provide support and advice from a nursing perspective,” she said.

“It gives our NUMs an extra layer of information and support that they are then able to pass on to the nursing teams who will be present during VAD.

“The combination of care between medical and nursing staff has been very positive and it helps to ensure a positive outcome for families as well.”