Constructions of dignity in end-of-life care

The meaning of dignity is commonly assumed but rarely examined in palliativ e care. Dying with dignity often forms the basis of clinical decision makin g at the end of life, but is constructed differently depending upon setting and context. A discourse analysis of patient and family case studies found that relationships and embodiment were important aspects of dignity that h ave been neglected in the literature, although these constructions of digni ty matter to dying people and their families. An understanding of these con structions can assist clinicians in providing sensitive palliative care acr oss a range of community and medical settings.