Spiritual Care Education and Rural Systems in Swan River

Mapping spiritual care in small and critical access hospitals in a faith-based US Health system

Little is known about spiritual care in small hospitals and critical access hospitals (CAHs), essential sources of health care in rural areas of the US. Using interview-administered surveys with spiritual care providers, we examined spiritual care services in 19 facilities, including seven small hospitals, nine CAHs, and three freestanding emergency departments, in one religiously-owned healthcare system. We identified four groups of facilities based on intensity/frequency of chaplain availability. A central finding was the variation in spiritual care services provided in these diverse facilities. Of the 16 hospitals in the sample, 11 of them (69%) offered spiritual care from professional chaplains at least three days per week. Support for staff was an important priority in all the facilities. Needs identified include virtual training and support for the spiritual care providers in these settings. Future research should replicate this study in a representative sample of hospitals that serve the rural US population.

Effect of Spiritual Care on Chest Tube Removal Anxiety and Pain in Heart Surgery in Muslim Patients (Shia and Sunni)

The process of removal of a chest tube can cause pain and anxiety. Spiritual care can be considered as a component of nursing care, especially in the pain and anxiety relating to such procedures. This study was a randomized clinical trial. Eighty patients completed the study. The findings showed significant differences in anxiety and pain between groups (p = 0.001). Spiritual care reduced anxiety and pain caused by chest tube removal in patients (Shia and Sunni Islam) undergoing heart surgery.

Out Of The Ashes: The Alberta Consortium For Supervised Pastoral Education Program

In Alberta, Canada, supervised pastoral education has grown and thrived for over 50 years. In 2008, due to healthcare funding changes, it was nearly eliminated. This article describes regenerative processes by which former structures have transformed into a new configuration for supervised pastoral education program delivery, including innovative roles for spiritual care preceptors and theological colleges. Out of the ashes, a phoenix is rising. It is called the Alberta Consortium for Supervised Pastoral Education program.