Strategies to Support Spirituality in Health Care Communication

A Home Hospice Cancer Caregiver Case Study

1. Maija Reblin, PhD
   1. University of Utah
2. Shirley Otis-Green, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, OSW-C
   1. City of Hope National Medical Center

1. Lee Ellington, PHD
2. Margaret F. Clayton, PhD, APRN

1. University of Utah

1. Maija Reblin, PhD, Research Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA; email: maija.reblin@nurs.utah.edu.

Abstract

Background: Although there is growing recognition of the importance of integrating spirituality within health care, there is little evidence to guide clinicians in how to best communicate with patients and family about their spiritual or existential concerns. Methods: Using an audio-recorded home hospice nurse visit immediately following the death of a patient as a case-study, we identify spiritually-sensitive communication strategies. 

Results: The nurse incorporates spirituality in her support of the family by 1) creating space to allow for the expression of emotions and spiritual beliefs and 2) encouraging meaning-based coping, including emphasizing the caregivers’ strengths and reframing negative experiences. 

Discussion: Hospice provides an excellent venue for modeling successful examples of spiritual communication. Health care professionals can learn these techniques to support patients and families in their own holistic practice. Implications for Practice: 

All health care professionals benefit from proficiency in spiritual communication skills. Attention to spiritual concerns ultimately improves care.

• support, spirituality, communication, hospice, transdisciplinary education