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Spirituality in palliative care: what language do we need?
1The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice, Glasgow, UK. marjory.byrne@ppwh.org.uk
International Journal of Palliative Nursing
|October 22, 2008
Summary
Spirituality in palliative care is explored through metaphor and story. An art project at The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice (PPWH) highlights how these elements reveal unique patient experiences and needs.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care
- Spirituality
- Medical Humanities
Background:
- Spirituality is a key component of palliative care, influencing patient well-being.
- Metaphor and narrative are recognized as significant elements in understanding human experience, including illness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of metaphor and story in expressing spirituality within palliative care.
- To examine how creative arts projects can facilitate the expression of spiritual needs and experiences in patients.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the language of spirituality in palliative care, focusing on metaphor and story.
- Case study of an art project and publication at The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice (PPWH).
Main Results:
- Metaphors, such as the 'journey' of illness, are commonly used in palliative care to articulate patient experiences.
- Creative expression through art projects provides a means to unravel patients' stories, revealing unique fears and inner needs.
- The PPWH art project demonstrated the power of creative arts in bearing witness to patients' spiritual journeys.
Conclusions:
- Metaphor and story are vital tools for understanding and addressing the spiritual dimension of palliative care.
- Creative arts offer a valuable modality for patients to express their spiritual experiences and for professionals to engage with them.
- Integrating narrative and metaphorical approaches can enhance the holistic care provided in palliative settings.
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