The stresses of volunteering in a hospice: a qualitative study

This study examined the stresses associated with hospice volunteering, ways of coping and perception of available support.

Two focus groups were conducted comprising 17 volunteers. The data obtained were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis.

Reported stressors included losing patients and dealing with disfigurement. However, informants generally reported the work as satisfying and generally stress-free. Coping strategies ranged from keeping a distance from clients, religious faith, to the realization that death was a merciful end and was not necessarily painful. Informants generally perceived support to be adequate.

The implications of these findings for training volunteers are discussed, especially the need to educate volunteers about the symptoms and signs of cancer.