This study provides insights into targets for changes in Italian Emergency Departments. Room for improvement relates to training for healthcare professionals on palliative care, the development of a shared care pathway for patients with palliative care needs, and the optimization of Emergency Department environment.

These targets will be the basis for the development of a quality improvement program in Italian Emergency Departments.

21 healthcare professionals, 6 patients and 5 relatives participated in this study.

5 themes were identified:

1. Shared priorities in Emergency Department among healthcare professionals and patients
2. The information provided by healthcare professionals and that desired by relatives
3. Perception of environment and time
4. Limitations and barriers to the continuity of care
5. The contrasting interpretations of giving and receiving palliative care

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