Bridging the gap in palliative care nursing training: The emerging role of virtual and innovative learning models in Middle Eastern countries

Palliative care is a critical component of Universal Health Coverage and a key approach for reducing serious health-related suffering; however, major educational gaps persist among nurses across the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Although nurses deliver palliative care in hospitals, communities, and homes, many report insufficient knowledge, skills, and confidence, especially in end-of-life communication, complex symptom management, and psychosocial–spiritual support. These gaps are driven by limited curricular integration, shortages of trained faculty, resource constraints, and scarce post-graduation training. Digital and virtual education models (e.g., Project ECHO, web-based modules, and virtual simulation/VR) offer scalable solutions by improving access, reducing time and cost barriers, and strengthening competence and self-efficacy. These models need to fit local health‑system capacities and the cultural and religious norms of Middle Eastern communities, especially around family‑centered decisions and sensitive conversations. Continued investment in faculty training, technology, and mentorship is essential for bringing culturally responsive virtual palliative care education into nursing programs.

کلیدواژه ها:

Palliative care ، Nursing ، Nursing education ، Learning