Spiritual Care[Givers] Competence in Palliative Care: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Palliative Care
• Spiritual Care
• Healthcare Professional Competence

Background:

• Effective spiritual care is integral to holistic palliative care.
• Professionals require multifaceted skills encompassing physical, mental, social, and spiritual domains.
• Spiritual care competence involves specific knowledge, behaviors, attitudes, and skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the scope of spiritual care competence in palliative care.
• To delineate specific skills, knowledge, and attitudes for providing spiritual care.
• To explore challenges and facilitators in delivering spiritual care to palliative patients.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology.
• Six major databases were searched, with an update in January 2024.
• Content analysis was applied to 30 selected articles, categorizing information into cognitive, affective, and functional domains.

Main Results:

• Palliative care professionals often lack adequate training and preparation for spiritual care.
• Spiritual care competence is influenced by professional spiritual development, spiritual intelligence, spiritual humility, and critical reflection.
• Key components include intrapersonal, interpersonal, and transpersonal resources.

Conclusions:

• Improving competent spiritual care is essential for future palliative care practice.
• This review clarifies the components of spiritual care competence, aiding professional development.
• Enhanced professional empowerment can lead to more effective spiritual care for patients and families.