Spiritual Care Competence in Palliative Care: A Concept Analysis

Area of Science:

• Healthcare
• Nursing
• Psychology

Background:

• Spirituality is an integral aspect of human experience and care.
• Spiritual care competence is underdeveloped in clinical practice.
• Lack of knowledge hinders the integration of spiritual care.

Purpose of the Study:

• Define Spiritual Care Competence in Palliative Care.
• Identify its attributes, antecedents, and consequences.
• Clarify conceptual boundaries and empirical referents.

Main Methods:

• Concept analysis using Walker and Avant's method.
• Organized attributes into intrapersonal, interpersonal, and transpersonal domains.
• Examined antecedents and consequences for patients and professionals.

Main Results:

• Key attributes include spiritual awareness, humility, active listening, compassion, and establishing meaningful connections.
• Antecedents involve training, engagement, and recognizing spiritual dimensions.
• Consequences encompass suffering relief, reduced anxiety, enhanced well-being, and cost reduction.

Conclusions:

• Cultivating spiritual care competence leads to person-centered care.
• It improves end-of-life patient/family outcomes.
• It enhances professional satisfaction and personal fulfillment.