An Analysis of the Life-Sustaining Treatment Decision-Making System Using Film-Based Education

Purpose: This study aimed to explore nursing students’ perceptions of the Life-Sustaining Treatment Decision-Making Act and to examine their related experiences and perspectives. Methods: This study is a descriptive research study. Data were collected from 80 second-year nursing students at a university located in Gyeonggi Province. Semi-structured interviews and open-ended questionnaire responses were used to assess students’ perceptions, experiences, and educational needs related to the Life-Sustaining Treatment Decision-Making Act. The data were analyzed by categorizing responses into themes. Results: Most participants demonstrated a general understanding of the Life-Sustaining Treatment Decision-Making Act and recognized ethical issues that may arise in clinical practice. The students emphasized the need for an expanded professional role of nurses in the decision-making process related to life-sustaining treatment. In addition, participants reported that classes using films increased their interest in the topic and provided opportunities for reflection. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the development of practical and structured ethics education programs is important to support nursing students in making appropriate ethical judgments based on sound ethical values when encountering ethical dilemmas in clinical settings.