“Experiential training course on spirituality for multidisciplinary palliative care teams in a hospital setting: a mixed-method evaluation”

Abstract

Abstract Background: There is widespread agreement about the importance of Spiritual Training Programs (STPs) for healthcare professionals caring for cancer patients, and that reflecting on one’s own spirituality is the first step. Health Professionals (HPs) working in hospitals must develop this dimension to guarantee quality of life as well as spiritual and emotional support. In this paper, we propose a possible training format and assess its implementation. Methods: This is a Phase 0-I study that follows the Medical Research Council (MRC) framework. The program was implemented for hospital palliative care health professionals. The study included one theory lesson, three spiritual interactions, four pieces of reflective writing, and two individual follow-up sessions for each participant. The evaluation was performed according to Moore’s framework using data triangulation from 3 rounds of semi-structured interviews, reflective writing, and a meeting to validate the results from the whole group. Results: The program was implemented according to the plan and the program components were highly appreciated by the participants. Analysis of the interviews confirmed a shift in meaning in what we defined as (1) What is spirituality?, (2) Getting spiritual experience at work, (3) Spirituality and the need for nourishment, (4) Self-reflection on one’s own spirituality. Reflective journals written by the participants confirmed the results and highlighted a) the value of time dedicated to spirituality, b) the role of other colleagues, and c) the transferability to care relationships.The training had an impact on Moore’s Level 3B. Conclusions: Spiritual training for hospital professionals working in different disciplines is feasible. Reflecting on their own spirituality spontaneously raised the need for health professionals to have spiritual tools to care for patients. Having time dedicated to spirituality and the ongoing mentorship of Spiritual Care Professionals (SCPs) were suggested as key elements for success and to gain support from management. Future research will need to expand this Spiritual Care Training (SCT) to other Specialist Palliative Care Services (SPCSs) in a hospital setting.