A journey in pastoral care: A case study

Area of Science:

• Healthcare
• Spiritual Care
• Patient Well-being

Background:

• The role of chaplains within healthcare teams is frequently misunderstood by medical professionals.
• Clarity regarding the chaplain's function and contribution to patient care is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the concept and practical application of pastoral care in a healthcare setting.
• To illustrate the value of chaplaincy services through a real-world case example.

Main Methods:

• A case study approach was employed to observe and document chaplain-patient interactions.
• Qualitative analysis of the interaction to highlight its impact on patient well-being.

Main Results:

• The case study effectively demonstrated the chaplain's role in providing emotional and spiritual support.
• The interaction positively contributed to the patient's overall well-being.

Conclusions:

• Pastoral care, exemplified by chaplaincy, is an integral component of holistic patient care.
• Understanding and integrating chaplains into healthcare teams enhances patient outcomes and satisfaction.