Social Value of the Age of the Dying Patient: Systematization, Validation, and Direction

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Abstract
This research focuses on the influence of nurses' perceptions of the social value of the age of the dying patient on loss and voluntary interaction. Results that were generated inductively in classic studies of social value are more rigorously investigated through a standardized research design. Extraneous variables are controlled through hospital selection and measurement strategies. An inverse relationship between the age of the dying patient and anticipated loss is supported, but various rationales are provided engendering the perspectives of diverse audiences. Apparently, the social value explanation for the impact of the age of the dying patient on loss has been overemphasized The nurses also said they would engage in voluntary behaviors with younger patients more often than with old or very old ones, but there were exceptions. Rationales were based on practical issues and the nurses' personal careers. Directives for future studies of social value are discussed. Pragmatic issues are considered.

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