ABSTRACT
Communication and decision making about end-of-life care may occur in various settings such as homes, physicians’ offices, or hospitals and with the input of various participants. The need for end-of-life care communication may result from sudden illness or injury or deterioration because of a chronic health condition. Individuals may also wish to plan for end-of-life care with their families in advance of becoming ill through various forms of advance directives. Regardless of the setting or immediate need for end-of-life care communication, it is often a difficult undertaking for all involved.
