This article is based on the findings of a study that elicited the views of
terminally ill patients (n = 15), their carers (n = 10) and bereaved carer
s (n = 19) on the palliative care services they received. It explores the r
ange of ethical issues revealed by the data. Although the focus of the orig
inal study was on community services, the participants frequently commented
on all aspects of their experience. They described some of its positive an
d negative aspects. Of concern was the reported lack of sensitivity to the
role of the family among health professionals. The family, as carers, servi
ce users and advocates, represent a challenge to professional boundaries an
d the ethical norms of confidentiality and best interest. The accounts reve
al the complexity of the ethical issues that characterize terminal care, is
suing specific ethical challenges to nurses and other health professionals
involved in this field.