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Wason S, Sims C. The experience of self-compassion training among NHS healthcare professionals. J Health Psychol 2024:13591053241267041. [PMID: 39077852 DOI: 10.1177/13591053241267041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Self-compassion in healthcare professionals (HCPs) is under-researched and undervalued. Promoting self-compassion within healthcare could have far-reaching benefits. This research study explores the experience of four NHS HCPs receiving a single short self-compassion training, with recommended at-home practices completed over 4 weeks. Subsequently, semi-structured interviews gathered information about their experience, resultant wellbeing and any impact on colleagues and patients. The main themes emerging from analysis of the interviews were motivation, permission and prioritisation. The motivation to practise self-compassion, and share this learning resulted from improved understanding of its potential benefits. Permission ties in with the notion of common humanity in self-compassion and its impact on negative self-talk and negative attitudes to self-compassion in a workplace. Prioritisation acknowledges the challenges for HCPs of investing time in self-compassion practice despite overstretched HCP workloads. Further consideration of these themes may help to better target any future research into strategies for enabling self-compassion among HCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Wason
- Buckinghamshire New University, UK
- Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, UK
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2
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Román-Calderón JP, Krikorian A, Ruiz E, Romero AM, Lemos M. Compassion and Self-Compassion: Counterfactors of Burnout in Medical Students and Physicians. Psychol Rep 2024; 127:1032-1049. [PMID: 36219581 DOI: 10.1177/00332941221132995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between self-compassion, compassion for others and Burnout in medical students and physicians. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted. Medicine students and general physicians from two Colombian cities participated (n = 359). The Compassion Scales and the Maslach Inventory were administered. An Exploratory Structural Equation approach was used for validating new measures and testing for relationships between latent variables. RESULTS Most participants were students (85.9%), mean age was 22 years (SD = 7), 55.2% were female, 62,6% dedicated more than 48 weekly hours to study or practice, while physicians had worked a mean of 10.34 years (SD = 8.67). Self-compassion and Compassion for others action subscales were validated, but engagement subscales of were not. Participant´s compassion actions for others and self-compassion actions are negatively related to depersonalization and emotional exhaustion, respectively. Additionally, compassion dimensions were positively associated with professional accomplishment. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that compassion and self-compassion actions inversely relate to different components of Burnout and could constitute protective factors against the stress of healthcare. Compassion and self-compassion training programs for medical students and physicians might be an alternative to avoid Burnout, diminishing physicians' depersonalization and emotional exhaustion while enhancing their professional accomplishment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alicia Krikorian
- Pain and Palliative Care Group, School of Health Sciences, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Erika Ruiz
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Montería, Colombia
| | - Ana M Romero
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Montería, Colombia
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O'Connor M, Shimoinaba K, Zhong Y, Peyton S. Self-compassion training in palliative care during COVID-19: A pilot study. Palliat Support Care 2024; 22:582-587. [PMID: 36226853 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522001195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This pilot project replicated a self-compassion program to support health-care professionals in palliative care settings. We anticipated that undertaking this program would enhance participants' psychological well-being. METHODS Participants were recruited by convenience sampling from palliative care services in an area of Melbourne, Australia. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the program was offered online and comprised six once-weekly gatherings. Three survey rounds with identical questions were conducted prior to, immediately after, and 3 months after the training. The surveys consisted of 6 scales: the Self-Compassion Scale, the Santa Clara Brief Compassion Scale, the Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, the Professional Quality of Life Scale, and the Interpersonal Reactivity Index Scale. Paired-sample t-test and repeated measures analysis of variance analyses were used to compare participant responses. RESULTS Nine participants working in palliative care completed the training and 3 surveys and included qualitative responses. The experience was overwhelmingly positive. Self-compassion (F = 14.44; p < 0.05) and mindfulness (F = 18.44; p < 0.05) scores significantly increased post-training, were picked up in a short time and endured. The emotional state improved by compassion satisfaction, showing a positive improvement 3 months post-training, along with there being no changes in compassion satisfaction, burnout, and dispositional empathy. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Participants all worked in a supportive environment, which encouraged self-care. Even against the pandemic difficulties, a short online program was effective, assisting participants to cultivate their inner resources in mindfulness and self-compassion. While a small sample size, expansion of the training may benefit the wider palliative care workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret O'Connor
- Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Frankston, Australia
- Melbourne City Mission Palliative Care, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Yaping Zhong
- Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Frankston, Australia
| | - Suzanne Peyton
- Melbourne City Mission Palliative Care, Melbourne, Australia
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Ma J, Xiao Q. Relationship Between Self-Compassion and Compassion for Others: The Mediated Effect of Perceived Social Support and Psychological Resilience. Psychol Rep 2024:332941241226906. [PMID: 38214161 DOI: 10.1177/00332941241226906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Studies from individualistic cultural contexts have shown there were no or negative significant correlation between self-compassion and compassion (for others). However, there may be a closer association between them in a collectivism and Buddhism culture. This study randomly selected 441 college students in China and used measures of self-compassion, trait compassion (compassion for others), psychological resilience, and perceiving social support to investigate this relationship. The results showed a moderately positive correlation between self-compassion and compassion. Further chain-mediation analyses revealed that self-compassion not only directly predicted compassion for others but also indirectly influenced it through the mediating effects of perceiving social support and psychological resilience. The results of this study suggest that the quality of compassion may be significantly influenced by culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialan Ma
- Department of Psychology, Inner Mongolia Normal University, Huhehaote, China
| | - Qianguo Xiao
- Research center of Humanities and Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
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Kluger BM, Hudson P, Hanson LC, Bužgovà R, Creutzfeldt CJ, Gursahani R, Sumrall M, White C, Oliver DJ, Pantilat SZ, Miyasaki J. Palliative care to support the needs of adults with neurological disease. Lancet Neurol 2023; 22:619-631. [PMID: 37353280 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(23)00129-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Neurological diseases cause physical, psychosocial, and spiritual or existential suffering from the time of their diagnosis. Palliative care focuses on improving quality of life for people with serious illness and their families by addressing this multidimensional suffering. Evidence from clinical trials supports the ability of palliative care to improve patient and caregiver outcomes by the use of outpatient or home-based palliative care interventions for people with motor neuron disease, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease; inpatient palliative care consultations for people with advanced dementia; telephone-based case management for people with dementia in the community; and nurse-led discussions with decision aids for people with advanced dementia in long-term care. Unfortunately, most people with neurological diseases do not get the support that they need for their palliative care under current standards of healthcare. Improving this situation requires the deployment of routine screening to identify individual palliative care needs, the integration of palliative care approaches into routine neurological care, and collaboration between neurologists and palliative care specialists. Research, education, and advocacy are also needed to raise standards of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benzi M Kluger
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Peter Hudson
- The University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia; Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Laura C Hanson
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Radka Bužgovà
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | | | - Roop Gursahani
- Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Malenna Sumrall
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Charles White
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | | | - Steven Z Pantilat
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Italy was the first European country to be involved with the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, many healthcare professionals were deployed and suddenly faced end-of-life care management and its challenges. AIMS To understand the experiences of palliative care professionals deployed in supporting emergency and critical care staff during the COVID-19 first and second pandemic waves. RESEARCH DESIGN A qualitative descriptive design was adopted, and in-depth interviews were used to investigate and analyse participants' perceptions and points of view. PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH CONTEXT Twenty-four healthcare professionals (physicians, nurses, psychologists, physiotherapists, and spiritual support) from the most affected areas of Italy were recruited via the Italian society of palliative care and researchers' network. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS The University Institutional Board granted ethical approval. Participants gave written informed consent and agreed to be video-recorded. FINDINGS The overarching theme highlighted participants' experience supporting health professionals to negotiate ethical complexity in end-of-life care. Crucial topics that emerged within themes were: training emergency department professionals on ethical dimensions of palliative and end-of-life care, preserving dying patients' dignity and developing ethical competence in managing end-of-life care. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed palliative care teams' challenges in supporting health professionals' ethical awareness in emergencies. However, while they highlighted their concerns in dealing with the emergency staff's lack of ethical perspectives, they also reported the positive impact of an ethically-informed palliative care approach. Lastly, this study illuminates how palliative care professionals' clinical and ethical competence might have assisted a cultural change in caring for dying patients during COVID-19 and future emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico De Luca
- Faculty of Health and Life Science, Academy of
Nursing, Exeter, Exeter University, Exeter, UK
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Baminiwatta A, Alahakoon H, Herath NC, Kodithuwakku KM, Nanayakkara T. Trait Mindfulness, Compassion, and Stigma Towards Patients with Mental Illness: A Study Among Nurses in Sri Lanka. Mindfulness (N Y) 2023; 14:979-991. [PMID: 37090854 PMCID: PMC10031165 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-023-02108-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Stigma towards persons with mental illness is widespread. Mindfulness may protect against stigma by cultivating accepting attitudes, non-reactivity, and prosocial emotions. This study aimed to assess whether higher trait mindfulness among nurses was linked to lower stigma towards psychiatric patients, and whether compassion mediated this relationship. Method In this cross-sectional study among nurses in four tertiary care hospitals in Sri Lanka, stigma towards psychiatric patients was assessed using the Attribution Questionnaire (AQ-9), which assesses nine separate domains of stigma. The 20-item Six-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire and the 5-item Santa Clara Brief Compassion Scale were used to assess mindfulness and compassion, respectively. Correlations among these variables were explored. Mediation analyses were performed. Results A total of 405 nurses (90.6% female, mean age = 39.6 years) participated in the study. Those with higher trait mindfulness were more likely to believe they would help a person with mental illness, and less likely to believe a person with mental illness should be avoided or segregated from the society. Compassion was inversely correlated with avoidance and anger, and positively correlated with pity, helping, and coercion domains. Trait mindfulness was positively correlated with compassion. Mediation models revealed that compassion partially mediated the effects of trait mindfulness on helping and avoidance. Facet-level analyses revealed significant effects of describing, non-reactivity, and observing on several stigma domains mediated through compassion. Conclusions Trait mindfulness among nurses appears to have a direct buffering effect against several domains of stigma towards psychiatric patients and significant indirect effects through compassion, albeit with small effect sizes. Preregistration This study is not pre-registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha Baminiwatta
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Namal C. Herath
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka
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Jiang H, Mei Y, Wang X, Wang W, Lin B, Zhao Z, Zhang Z. The influence of pet ownership on self-compassion among nurses: a cross-sectional study. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15288. [PMID: 37159831 PMCID: PMC10163869 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The modern lifestyle trend of pet ownership is undoubtedly beneficial for both physical and mental health. Research has shown a connection between pet ownership and staff self-compassion. However, there has not been any evidence linking pet ownership to self-compassion in the nurse population. Aims To investigate the current status of pet ownership among nurses and explore the influence of pet ownership on self-compassion among nurses. Methods An online survey was conducted in July 2022 with 1,308 nurses in China. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire and a self-compassion scale. To compare categorical variables, the independent t test, one-way ANOVA, and multiple linear regression analysis were utilized. SPSS software was used for the statistical analysis. Results We found that 16.9% of nurses owned at least one pet, and dogs and cats were the primary pets. The t test for independent samples showed that pet owners and non-pet owners scored differently on self-compassion (t = 3.286, p = 0.001), self-kindness (t = 3.378, p = 0.001), common humanity (t = 2.419, p = 0.016), and mindfulness (t = 2.246, p = 0.025). One-way ANOVA revealed that the highest degree was an influencing factor of self-compassion (χ 2 = 1.386, p = 0.019). Multiple linear regression showed that average monthly income, pet ownership, and highest degree were the factors that influenced self-compassion most significantly (F = 8.335, p < 0.001). Conclusion The results revealed that nurses actually own pets as part of their modern lifestyle, which provides them with social support and potentially enhances their self-compassion. More efforts should be focused on the impact of pet ownership on nurses' physical and mental health, and pet-based interventions should also be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Jiang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Nursing Department, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Yongxia Mei
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Wang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Wenna Wang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Beilei Lin
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhixin Zhao
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhenxiang Zhang
- School of Nursing and Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Self-Care for Nurses and Midwives: Findings from a Scoping Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10122473. [PMID: 36553999 PMCID: PMC9778446 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-care for health care professionals is essential in order to optimize the care they provide and to prevent serious consequences for their health. This scoping review aimed to identify (a) the concepts used in the literature to describe self-care; (b) interventions that influence self-care. The scoping review was conducted according to the criteria and methodology by Arksey and O'Malley, from November 2020 to January 2021, by consulting the following databases: Pubmed, CINAHL, Scopus, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library, Joanna Briggs Library. Various keywords and MesH terms were used for the search, including self-care, nurses, midwives, nursing, midwifery, self-compassion, and self-awareness. Eighteen studies were included. The concept of self-care is related to three constructs: (a) Mindfulness; (b) Compassion; and (c) Resilience. In the literature, self-care interventions can be distinguished as (a) mindfulness-based; (b) educational; (c) multimodal approach; and (d) mind-body interventions. In recent years, the concept of self-care is a topic of great interest in the literature; dealing with self-care from both a theoretical and a practical-personal and professional-perspective has become more important in order to promote practitioners' well-being. This scoping review helps to clarify the terms related to self-care and looks at tested interventions to improve the well-being of caregivers.
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Garcia ACM, Silva LSR, Ferreira ACG, Conceição VMD, Meireles E, Mills J. Translation, cultural adaptation, and validation of the mindful self-care scale among Brazilian palliative care providers. Palliat Support Care 2022; 20:839-845. [PMID: 34812133 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951521001802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Mindful Self-Care Scale (MSCS, 33-item) in a Brazilian hospice and palliative care context. METHOD This was a cross-sectional study with a sample of 336 Brazilian hospice and palliative care providers. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer - Quality of Life Group Translation Procedure protocol was used for the translation and the cultural adaptation process. Psychometric properties supporting the use of the MSCS were examined through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and correlation analysis with other instruments to assess congruence to related constructs (resilience and self-compassion). The reliability of the Brazilian-Portuguese version of the MSCS was assessed using Cronbach's α and composite reliability coefficients. RESULTS The six-factor (33-item) model showed a good fit to the data, with satisfactory reliability indices and adequate representation of the scale's internal structure. Further validity is evidenced in the significant, positive correlations found between the MSCS, and similar well-being constructs, namely the Self-Compassion and Resilience scales. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS The findings reveal that the MSCS (33-item) is a valid, reliable, and culturally appropriate instrument to examine the practice of mindful self-care by hospice and palliative care providers in Brazil. More broadly, it represents a promising instrument for future research into self-care practices and well-being among Brazilian healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cláudia Mesquita Garcia
- Interdisciplinary Center for Studies in Palliative Care, School of Nursing, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Laura Soares Rodrigues Silva
- Interdisciplinary Center for Studies in Palliative Care, School of Nursing, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ana Cristina Gonçalves Ferreira
- Interdisciplinary Center for Studies in Palliative Care, School of Nursing, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Everson Meireles
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Recôncavo da Bahia, Santo Antônio de Jesus, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Jason Mills
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
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Sansó N, Leiva JP, Vidal‐Blanco G, Galiana L, West M. The measurement of compassionate leadership: Adaptation and Spanish validation of the compassionate leadership self-reported scale. Scand J Caring Sci 2022; 36:1165-1179. [PMID: 35355300 PMCID: PMC9790542 DOI: 10.1111/scs.13079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A culture of shared leadership is widespread among palliative care teams based on a commitment to valuing and including all people equally. As compassion is a core value for end-of-life care work, compassionate leadership may be the best way to lead in palliative care. AIMS The aims of this study were twofold: (1) to adapt and validate the Compassionate Leadership Self-reported Scale in a sample of palliative care professionals; and (2) to study the relation between compassionate leadership and associated concepts of self-compassion, awareness and self-care. METHODS A cross-sectional survey of 296 Spanish end-of-life care professionals was conducted. Analyses included descriptive statistics, a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with four-correlated factors, reliability estimates and a structural model. RESULTS Results suggested there were medium to high levels of compassionate leadership in the sample. The CFA showed an adequate overall fit: χ2 (98) = 277.595 (p < 0.001); CFI = 0.986; SRMR = 0.047; RMSEA = 0.088 [0.076, 0.100]. Reliability estimates for four subscales of compassionate leadership (attending, understanding, empathising and helping) were also adequate, ranging from 0.72 to 0.96. Finally, the structural model predicting compassionate leadership suggested that the dimensions of attending and understanding were most highly related to positive self-compassion and awareness; empathising, to self-care and awareness; and helping, to positive self-compassion and self-care. CONCLUSION The Compassionate Leadership Scale has adequate psychometric properties when used to assess compassionate leadership in the context of end-of-life care. Our results indicate that self-compassion, awareness and self-care are important correlates of such compassionate leadership.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemí Sansó
- Department of Nursing and PhysiotherapyUniversity of the Balearic IslandsMallorcaSpain,Balearic Islands Health Research Institute (IDISBA)MallorcaSpain
| | - Juan P. Leiva
- Support and Palliative Care TeamHospital ManacorMallorcaSpain
| | | | - Laura Galiana
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral SciencesUniversity of ValenciaValenciaSpain
| | - Michael West
- The King’s FundLondonUK,Department of Organizational PsychologyLancaster UniversityLancasterUK,Aston UniversityBirminghamUK
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Ängeby K, Rubertsson C, Hildingsson I, Edqvist M. Self-compassion and professional quality of life among midwives and nurse assistants: A cross-sectional study. Eur J Midwifery 2022; 6:47. [PMID: 35974710 PMCID: PMC9330344 DOI: 10.18332/ejm/149520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Self-compassion and satisfaction derived from helping others is part of healthcare providers’ professional quality of life. The aim of this study was to explore and psychometrically test two instruments measuring self-compassion and professional quality of life among midwives and nurse assistants. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study with midwives and nurse assistants working with intrapartum care at five different labor wards in Sweden. The Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) and the modified Professional Quality of Life Measurement (ProQOL) were validated and correlation analyses were calculated between the different subscales. Descriptive statistics, t-test, were calculated to analyze associations between the subscales of the SCS, the ProQOL and the background variables. RESULTS Midwives were more self-critical than nurse assistants, and the midwives who were negative towards the new clinical practice scored higher for compassion fatigue. The principal component analysis showed a two-factor solution for both the SCS and the modified ProQOL. The two SCS subscales were named ‘self-criticism’ (α=0.85) and ‘self-kindness’ (α=0.87). The two ProQOL subscales were named ‘compassion satisfaction’ (α=0.83) and ‘compassion fatigue’ (α=0.78). A negative correlation was found between self-kindness and compassion fatigue subscales, between compassion satisfaction and compassion fatigue, and between self-kindness and self-criticism. CONCLUSIONS The SCS and modified ProQOL are considered as valid questionnaires for use in a Swedish maternity setting and a correlation between the scales was found. Midwives are more self-critical than nurse assistants. Understanding and identifying compassion fatigue among midwives is important to managers responsible for quality improvement and practice changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Ängeby
- Women's Department and Centre for Clinical Research Education, County Council of Varmland, Karlstad, Sweden
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Education, Health and Social Sciences, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
| | - Christine Rubertsson
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ingegerd Hildingsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Malin Edqvist
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Clinical Epidemiology Division, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Garcia ACM, Ferreira ACG, Silva LSR, da Conceição VM, Nogueira DA, Mills J. Mindful Self-Care, Self-Compassion, and Resilience Among Palliative Care Providers During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 64:49-57. [PMID: 35292366 PMCID: PMC8917778 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Given the adverse impact of COVID-19 on the wellbeing of palliative care providers, there is a growing need to better understand protective variables, such as self-care, mindfulness and self-compassion, as they relate to resilience. OBJECTIVE To investigate mindful self-care, self-compassion, and resilience as reported by palliative care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Descriptive, cross-sectional survey. An electronic questionnaire captured data from validated instruments measuring each study variable, as well as participant demographics and perceived impacts of COVID-19 on professional quality of life. RESULTS Positive, statistically significant correlations were found between mindful self-care, self-compassion, and resilience. These variables were also associated with greater satisfaction with professional life and perceived lessened impairment in physical and/or mental health due to a decrease in self-care activities stemming from altered routines during COVID-19. Those with higher resilience had worked in palliative care longer and also reported higher levels of self-compassion and mindful self-care, explaining 50% of variance. Self-compassion, satisfaction with professional life, and changes in self-care routine due to professional activities in the pandemic explained 44.3% of variance in mindful self-care. Self-compassion, female gender, and working as a frontline responder to the COVID-19 pandemic accounted for 35% variance in resilience levels. CONCLUSIONS Results from this study extend the currently limited knowledge of self-care, mindfulness and self-compassion, as protective variables related to resilience in palliative care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further longitudinal studies into causal effects on health and wellbeing over time are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jason Mills
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia
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Galiana L, Sansó N, Muñoz-Martínez I, Vidal-Blanco G, Oliver A, Larkin PJ. Palliative Care Professionals' Inner Life: Exploring the Mediating Role of Self-Compassion in the Prediction of Compassion Satisfaction, Compassion Fatigue, Burnout and Wellbeing. J Pain Symptom Manage 2022; 63:112-123. [PMID: 34271144 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Palliative care professionals are exposed to suffering on a daily basis. Working in such an environment frequently raises existential issues, psychological challenges, and emotional distress, that can detract from compassionate care. Identifying factors that help professionals cope with frequent exposure to issues related to mortality, such as compassion, could enhance palliative care providers' and patients' quality of life and wellbeing. OBJECTIVES To improve our understanding of the factors associated with professionals' inner life studying the role of self-compassion as a mediating variable between self-care and awareness and professionals' quality of life, and quantifying the impact of compassionate care. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey of palliative care professionals was conducted through the Spanish Society of Palliative Care. 296 professionals answered the survey. RESULTS The model tested showed an adequate fit (χ2(212) = 476.688 (P < .001), CFI = .907, RMSEA = .066 [.058,.073], and SRMR = .068), and the hypotheses were supported. Self-care and awareness predicted coping with death and self-compassion, which in turn predicted professional quality of life. Self-compassion had the greatest predictive power. Professional quality of life showed a statistically significant and positive effect on personal wellbeing, explaining more than 50% of its variance (R2 = .574; P < .001). CONCLUSION For palliative care professionals, the cultivation of self-compassion is equally needed as compassion for others. Professional quality of life and compassionate care are related to professionals' wellbeing: when professionals take care of themselves, this will lead in a more compassionate care, but also in healthier, happier professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Galiana
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral Sciences, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Noemí Sansó
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Balearic Islands, Palma, Spain; Balearic Islands Health Research Institute (IDISBA), Palma, Spain.
| | | | | | - Amparo Oliver
- Department of Methodology for the Behavioral Sciences, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Philip J Larkin
- Chair of Palliative Care Nursing, Palliative and Supportive Care Service, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Kaur A, Sharma MP, Chaturvedi SK. Felt Needs of Cancer Palliative Care Professionals Working in India: A Qualitative Study. Indian J Palliat Care 2021; 27:544-551. [PMID: 34898950 PMCID: PMC8655635 DOI: 10.25259/ijpc_125_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Cancer palliative care professionals face a plethora of challenges related to death, dying and suffering apart from limited workforce and other resources in India. However, the grief held by them is underappreciated and psychological needs are under explored. The aim of the present study was to explore felt needs of cancer palliative care professionals working in India. Materials and Methods: The study was cross-sectional, qualitative and in-depth in nature. It was conducted across four cancer palliative care centers in Bengaluru city of India. sample consisted of 15 professionals (mean age = 42 years and standard deviation = 8.41) with at least six months of experience, involved in direct patient care who gave an additional consent for audio-recording. The tools used were sociodemographic and professional datasheet and semi-structured interview guide, which were developed for the present study and validated from five experts. Thematic analysis was used to generate and analyze patterns within the qualitative data. Results: Five themes were identified, namely, death and grief; challenges in practice; strategies for self-care; positive professional experiences; and vision for palliative care. Conclusion: The cancer palliative care professionals need regular support in coping with death and grief, regular trainings and supervision across workplace to deal with occupational challenges, and to address their self-care and spiritual needs. The study highlights need to introduce more specialized training courses in handling pediatric patients, increase palliative care workforce, and hospice units. This can have implications in future research and training with development of innovative interventions to address these needs and challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanpreet Kaur
- Research Fellow, The George Institute for Global Health, New Delhi, India
| | - Mahendra P Sharma
- Department of Clinical Psychology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Santosh K Chaturvedi
- Consultant Psychiatrist, Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, Leicester, United Kingdom
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16
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Diggory K, Reeves A. ‘Permission to be kind to myself’. The experiences of informal carers of those with a life-limiting or terminal illness of a brief self-compassion-based self-care intervention. PROGRESS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/09699260.2021.1972722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kate Diggory
- Department of Social and Political Science, University of Chester, Chester, UK
| | - Andrew Reeves
- Department of Social and Political Science, University of Chester, Chester, UK
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17
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Wong KTC, Chow AYM, Chan IKN. Effectiveness of Educational Programs on Palliative and End-of-life Care in Promoting Perceived Competence Among Health and Social Care Professionals. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 39:45-53. [PMID: 34409883 DOI: 10.1177/10499091211038501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a growing need for palliative care for patients near the end of life and their caregivers. Palliative and end-of-life care (EoLC) education are recommended for all health care (e.g., physicians, nurses, and allied health practitioners) and social care professionals (e.g., social workers) to ensure the quality of services. However, less attention has been afforded to generic, in contrast to specialized, EoLC education. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a series of short-term generic EoLC educational programs for health and social care professionals. METHOD A pre-post survey design was adopted, focusing on different EoLC core competences. RESULTS Significant improvement was observed in all perceived competences after the educational programs, regardless of participants' occupation or EoLC experience. Perceived competence in self-care was rated significantly higher than all other competences prior to the programs. Healthcare professionals rated significantly higher on competence in symptom management than social workers. Scores on communication skill and self-care competences were significantly higher following longer (i.e., 16-24 hours) than shorter (i.e., 4-8 hours) programs. CONCLUSION Generalist palliative/EoLC educational programs may enable health and social care professionals to refresh and extend their knowledge and skills and enhance their perceived competence in providing EoLC. Further research on generalist palliative/EoLC education is needed to examine the impact of continuing training on professionals' actual practice in EoLC and palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Tsz Ching Wong
- Jockey Club End-of-Life Community Care Project, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Amy Yin Man Chow
- Jockey Club End-of-Life Community Care Project, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.,Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Iris Kwan Ning Chan
- Jockey Club End-of-Life Community Care Project, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
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18
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Bruk A, Scholl SG, Bless H. You and I Both: Self-Compassion Reduces Self-Other Differences in Evaluation of Showing Vulnerability. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN 2021; 48:1054-1067. [PMID: 34292104 PMCID: PMC9178778 DOI: 10.1177/01461672211031080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
People tend to be overly critical of their own displays of vulnerability, whereas observers evaluate others’ showing of vulnerability rather positively (beautiful mess effect). We propose that self-compassion might buffer against such misperceptions of one’s own vulnerabilities. When confronted with challenging situations, self-compassionate people are kind to themselves, see adversity as inevitable, and face the difficulty of their circumstances without overexaggeration. Thus, we hypothesized reduced self–other differences in the evaluation of showing vulnerability in self-compassionate individuals. The hypothesis was addressed in four studies. The first two studies measured self-compassion either immediately (Study 1a) or substantially (Study 1b) before participants evaluated showing of vulnerability. Studies 2 and 3 tested the generalizability of the hypothesis across different situations as well as the discriminant validity of self-compassion’s role in the reduction of the beautiful mess effect. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
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19
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Mesquita Garcia AC, Domingues Silva B, Oliveira da Silva LC, Mills J. Self-compassion In Hospice and Palliative Care: A Systematic Integrative Review. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2021; 23:145-154. [PMID: 33633095 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000000727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Those involved with hospice and palliative care, including nurses, will inevitably experience or be exposed to suffering. Self-compassion represents a personal resource and support for self-care, ensuring that needs are not neglected particularly during times of suffering. However, the empirical evidence for self-compassion in hospice and palliative care is yet to be reviewed systematically. To synthesize the evidence on self-compassion in hospice and palliative care patients, their relatives, and health care professionals, we conducted a systematic integrative review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses statement. For patients, self-compassion was associated with reduced stress, anxiety, shame, depressive symptoms, fear of cancer recurrence, and loneliness. It was also associated with increased social capital, self-soothing, mindfulness, compassion, causal reasoning ability, psychosocial and spiritual well-being, legacy, courage, and commitment. For health care professionals, self-compassion was associated with increased capacity for self-care, mindfulness, and professional quality of life and a decrease in perceived burnout risk and secondary traumatic stress. No studies were found to involve patients' relatives. Self-compassion seems to be an important resource in hospice and palliative care. It supports self-care and alleviates suffering by improving the social, psychosocial, and spiritual well-being of patients and health care professionals, including hospice and palliative care nurses. Future research should include care patients' relatives.
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20
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Watts KJ, O'Connor M, Johnson CE, Breen LJ, Kane RT, Choules K, Doyle C, Buchanan G, Yuen K. Mindfulness-Based Compassion Training for Health Professionals Providing End-of-Life Care: Impact, Feasibility, and Acceptability. J Palliat Med 2021; 24:1364-1374. [PMID: 33666500 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2020.0358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Health professionals who care for patients and their families at the end of life (EOL) may experience gratitude, and enhanced spirituality and meaning in life, yet they are also at increased risk of psychological distress, compassion fatigue, and occupational burnout given the stressors they encounter in their work. Objectives: This research evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of a novel six-week mindfulness-based compassion training intervention, which was tailored to health professionals involved in EOL care ("MBCT4HP"), and explored its impact on levels of psychological distress, compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction, occupational burnout, self-compassion, and mindfulness. Design: We adopted an observational, repeated measures pilot study. Setting/Subjects: Thirty-one health professionals participated. The intervention comprised six, weekly sessions (totaling seven hours) designed to foster compassion for self and others, including formal and informal compassion and mindfulness practices, daily home practice, and a reflective experiential pedagogy. Measurements: Validated outcome measures for anxiety, depression, and stress; compassion satisfaction, compassion fatigue (burnout, secondary traumatic stress); occupational burnout (emotional exhaustion, personal accomplishment, and depersonalization), self-compassion, and mindfulness were administered at baseline, end of intervention, and eight weeks postintervention. The feasibility and acceptability of the intervention was assessed using attendance records, home practice logs, and self-report satisfaction items. Descriptive statistics and Generalized Linear Mixed Models were used to analyze the data. Results: Participants reported that the sessions were useful, relevant, easy to understand, and that they gave them sufficient knowledge to implement the strategies learned. Levels of anxiety, compassion fatigue (burnout only), and emotional exhaustion decreased over time with some decay in effects at follow up, and levels of compassion satisfaction and self-compassion increased with time. Conclusions: The intervention was feasible and acceptable to health professionals involved in EOL care and had a positive impact on levels of anxiety, compassion fatigue (burnout), emotional exhaustion, compassion satisfaction, and self-compassion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaaren J Watts
- WA Cancer Prevention Research Unit, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Moira O'Connor
- WA Cancer Prevention Research Unit, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Claire E Johnson
- Monash Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Lauren J Breen
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Robert T Kane
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Claire Doyle
- Silver Chain Palliative Dementia Service, Osborne Park, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Grace Buchanan
- Palliative and Supportive Care Education, Cancer Council Western Australia, Subiaco, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Kevin Yuen
- Palliative Care Department, Royal Perth Bentley Group, East Metropolitan Health Service, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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21
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The Role of Self-compassion, Concern for Others, and Basic Psychological Needs in the Reduction of Caregiving Burnout. Mindfulness (N Y) 2021; 12:741-750. [PMID: 33224308 PMCID: PMC7667216 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-020-01540-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Objectives Compassion is the beneficial response of an individual to the sufferings and difficulties of others. Self-compassion refers to feelings of concern an individual feel towards oneself. Both may serve as potential buffers in a hospital setting where caregivers attending to patients in critical condition experience emotional distress, which may lead to burnout. However, the unique contribution of compassion, both to self and others, to the decrease of burnout is unclear. Methods In the present study, we recruited 109 professional caregivers working in a hospital's intensive care and rehabilitative units. We explored a theoretically driven mediation model in which the relationship between compassion for self and others and burnout is mediated by different basic psychological needs, detailed in the self-determination theory. Results Results indicated that self-compassion and concern for others were associated with reduced levels of burnout. Each of these buffers against burnout was mediated by a unique psychological need, thereby supporting a three-layered model of (a) compassion and self-compassion, (b) basic psychological needs, and (c) burnout. Conclusions Our study highlights compassion and self-compassion as potential resilience factors against the challenge of burnout in healthcare. It points to promising avenues for preemptive clinical interventions.
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22
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Translation and Validation of the Mindful Self-Care Scale—Chinese Version: A Pilot Study. PSYCH 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/psych2040025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Numerous research studies have investigated and identified the high prevalence of poor mental health status among the Chinese population, for example suffering from a high level of anxiety and depression. Moreover, the Chinese population are shown to have a conservative attitude towards mental health problems and a passive help-seeking behaviour when suffering from psychological distress. Therefore, it is important to assess the levels of self-care among the Chinese population, which is considered as the basis for tackling psychological well-being issues by the World Health Organization (WHO). Self-care was conceptualised and measured by the Mindful Self-Care Scale (MSCS), but without being translated and adapted to the Chinese population. The purpose of this study is to translate the scale into Chinese and to conduct a pilot test to validate the scale among the Chinese population. (2) Methods: Participants (N = 161), with 96 females and 65 males, with an age range from 18 to 62, mage = 26.1 (SD = 6.64), were recruited from Hong Kong (n = 63), Taiwan (n = 44), and mainland China (n = 54) using convenience sampling. (3) Results: The results show a satisfying internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.915) without items that need to be deleted as well as an adequate validity, with Kaiser–Mayer–Olkin (KMO) value of 0.856 and significant correlation between self-care and the two variables: self-compassion and well-being (r = 0.403, r = 0.172, p < 0.001). (4) Conclusions: The results preliminarily indicate that the Chinese version of MSCS is reliable and valid. However, test–retest reliability and confirmatory factor analysis should be performed with a larger sample size for further validation.
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Vanstone M, Sadik M, Smith O, Neville TH, LeBlanc A, Boyle A, Clarke FJ, Swinton ME, Takaoka A, Toledo F, Baker AJ, Phung P, Cook DJ. Building organizational compassion among teams delivering end-of-life care in the intensive care unit: The 3 Wishes Project. Palliat Med 2020; 34:1263-1273. [PMID: 32519615 DOI: 10.1177/0269216320929538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 3 Wishes Project is a semistructured program that improves the quality of care for patients dying in the intensive care unit by eliciting and implementing wishes. This simple intervention honors the legacy of patients and eases family grief, forging human connections between family members and clinicians. AIM To examine how the 3 Wishes Project enables collective patterns of compassion between patients, families, clinicians, and managerial leaders in the intensive care unit. DESIGN Using a qualitative descriptive approach, interviews and focus groups were used to collect data from family members of dying patients, clinicians, and institutional leaders. Unconstrained directed qualitative content analysis was performed using Organizational Compassion as the analytic framework. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Four North American intensive care units, participants were 74 family members of dying patients, 72 frontline clinicians, and 20 managerial leaders. RESULTS The policies and processes of the 3 Wishes Project exemplify organizational compassion by supporting individuals in the intensive care unit to collectively notice, feel, and respond to suffering. As an intervention that enables and empowers clinicians to engage in acts of kindness to enhance end-of-life care, the 3 Wishes Project is particularly well situated to encourage collective responses to suffering and promote compassion between patients, family members, and clinicians. CONCLUSIONS Examining the 3 Wishes Project through the lens of organizational compassion reveals the potential of this program to cultivate the capacity for people to collectively notice, feel, and respond to suffering. Our data document multidirectional demonstrations of compassion between clinicians and family members, forging the type of human connections that may foster resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Vanstone
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Marina Sadik
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Orla Smith
- Critical Care Department, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Thanh H Neville
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Allana LeBlanc
- Department of Nursing, Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Anne Boyle
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,Department of Palliative Care, St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - France J Clarke
- Department of Critical Care, St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,Departments Medicine and Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Marilyn E Swinton
- Departments Medicine and Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Alyson Takaoka
- Department of Critical Care, St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,Departments Medicine and Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Feli Toledo
- Department of Spiritual Care, St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Andrew J Baker
- Critical Care Department, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Phung
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Palliative Care Program, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Deborah J Cook
- Department of Critical Care, St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,Departments Medicine and Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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Adams M, Chase J, Doyle C, Mills J. Self-care planning supports clinical care: Putting total care into practice. PROGRESS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/09699260.2020.1799815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marg Adams
- Nurse Practitioner and Independent Scholar, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jeanne Chase
- Social Worker, Psychotherapist and Independent Scholar, Queensland, Australia
| | - Camille Doyle
- Nurse Practitioner and Independent Scholar, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jason Mills
- School of Nursing, Midwifery & Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia
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25
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Lin CH, Liu YC, Chiang HH. From self-compassion to compassionate action: reflecting on ending life of stillbirth care in nursing. Scand J Caring Sci 2020; 35:260-267. [PMID: 32346878 DOI: 10.1111/scs.12842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Nurses' distress in response to the professional experience of the neonatal loss and stillbirth care is poorly addressed in nursing practice; therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore nurses' experiences of labour of a stillborn baby. A qualitative approach with ten Registered Nurses from hospital birth units in northern Taiwan was used to investigate the stillbirth care experiences of nurses. Research data analysed by interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) were collected from eight digital recorded sessions of group dialogues, nurses' responses and feedbacks. Three main themes extracted from data include unfolding the suffering, engrossing in stillborn parents and demonstrating compassionate actions for the stillborn baby. Unfolding the suffering includes shame, guilt and disenfranchised grief. Engrossing in stillborn parents includes perceiving the mother's suppress sadness and empathising with the father's anger. Finally, demonstrating compassionate actions includes fulfilling the parents' needs to say goodbye to their stillborn baby and saying a personal goodbye to the dead baby. The finding of this study shows that the reflective group provided the space for nurses to unfold their suffering, share their emotion, and develop practical wisdom in caring for stillborn baby and the parents. The experience of nurse group conducting the reflecting dialogues could be a expository strategy to promote the nurse to provide the compassionate care actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Hui Lin
- Kang Ning University of Nursing, School of Nursing, Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Ying-Chun Liu
- School of Nursing, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | - Hsien-Hsien Chiang
- School of Nursing, Institute of Clinical Nursing, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C
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26
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Hofmeyer A, Kennedy K, Taylor R. Contesting the term ‘compassion fatigue’: Integrating findings from social neuroscience and self-care research. Collegian 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colegn.2019.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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27
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Mills J. Ambulance Wish: An opportunity for public health palliative care partnerships with paramedics and other community members. PROGRESS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/09699260.2020.1695335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jason Mills
- Charles Darwin University, Brisbane, Australia
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28
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Mills J, Ven S. Future-proofing the palliative care workforce: Why wait for the future? PROGRESS IN PALLIATIVE CARE 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/09699260.2019.1661214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Saroeun Ven
- The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
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29
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Devik SA, Enmarker I, Hellzen O. Nurses' experiences of compassion when giving palliative care at home. Nurs Ethics 2019; 27:194-205. [PMID: 31023157 DOI: 10.1177/0969733019839218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Compassion is seen as a core professional value in nursing and as essential in the effort of relieving suffering and promoting well-being in palliative care patients. Despite the advances in modern healthcare systems, there is a growing clinical and scientific concern that the value of compassion in palliative care is being less emphasised. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore nurses' experiences of compassion when caring for palliative patients in home nursing care. DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS A secondary qualitative analysis inspired by hermeneutic circling was performed on narrative interviews with 10 registered nurses recruited from municipal home nursing care facilities in Mid-Norway. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS The Norwegian Social Science Data Services granted permission for the study (No. 34299) and the re-use of the data. FINDINGS The compassionate experience was illuminated by one overarching theme: valuing caring interactions as positive, negative or neutral, which entailed three themes: (1) perceiving the patient's plea, (2) interpreting feelings and (3) reasoning about accountability and action, with subsequent subthemes. DISCUSSION In contrast to most studies on compassion, our results highlight that a lack of compassion entails experiences of both negative and neutral content. CONCLUSION The phenomenon of neutral caring interactions and lack of compassion demands further explorations from both a patient - and a nurse perspective.
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30
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Mills
- Lecturer, School of Nursing and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - John P Rosenberg
- Research Fellow, School of Nursing and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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31
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Kenten C, Ngwenya N, Gibson F, Flatley M, Jones L, Pearce S, Wong G, Black KM, Haig S, Hough R, Hurlow A, Stirling LC, Taylor RM, Tookman A, Whelan J. Understanding care when cure is not likely for young adults who face cancer: a realist analysis of data from patients, families and healthcare professionals. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e024397. [PMID: 30696681 PMCID: PMC6352841 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand the experiences of young adults with cancer for whom cure is not likely, in particular what may be specific for people aged 16-40 years and how this might affect care. DESIGN We used data from multiple sources (semi-structured interviews with people with cancer, nominated family members and healthcare professionals, and workshops) informed by a preliminary programme theory: realist analysis of data within these themes enabled revision of our theory. A realist logic of analysis explored contexts and mechanisms affecting outcomes of care. SETTING Three cancer centres and associated palliative care services across England. PARTICIPANTS We aimed for a purposive sample of 45 people with cancer from two groups: those aged 16-24 years for whom there may be specialist cancer centres and those 16-40 years cared for through general adult services; each could nominate for interview one family member and one healthcare professional. We interviewed three people aged 16-24 years and 30 people 25-40 years diagnosed with cancer (carcinomas; blood cancers; sarcoma; central nervous system tumours) with a clinician-estimated prognosis of <12 months along with nominated family carers and healthcare professionals. 19 bereaved family members and 47 healthcare professionals participated in workshops. RESULTS Data were available from 69 interviews (33 people with cancer, 14 family carers, 22 healthcare professionals) and six workshops. Qualitative analysis revealed seven key themes: loss of control; maintenance of normal life; continuity of care; support for professionals; support for families; importance of language chosen by professionals; and financial concerns. CONCLUSIONS Current care towards end of life for young adults with cancer and their families does not meet needs and expectations. We identified challenges specific to those aged 16-40 years. The burden that care delivery imposes on healthcare professionals must be recognised. These findings can inform recommendations for measures to be incorporated into services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Kenten
- Cancer Clinical Trials, University College Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Nothando Ngwenya
- Cancer Clinical Trials, University College Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Faith Gibson
- ORCHID, Great Ormond Street Hospital For Children NHS Trust, London, UK
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | | | - Louise Jones
- Division of Psychiatry, Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, University College London, London, UK
| | - Susie Pearce
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Plymouth Faculty of Health and Human Sciences, Plymouth, UK
| | - Geoff Wong
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kath M Black
- Academic Unit of Palliative Care, St Gemma’s Hospice, Leeds, UK
| | - Sue Haig
- Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Rachael Hough
- Children and Young Peoples Cancer Service, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Adam Hurlow
- Palliative Care, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - L Caroline Stirling
- Palliative Medicine, Camden, Islington ELiPSe and UCLH & HCA Palliative Care Service, London, UK
| | - Rachel M Taylor
- Cancer Clinical Trials, University College Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Adrian Tookman
- Marie Curie Hospice Hampstead, Marie Curie Cancer Care, London, UK
| | - Jeremy Whelan
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Mills J, Wand T, Fraser JA. Exploring the meaning and practice of self-care among palliative care nurses and doctors: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2018; 17:63. [PMID: 29669559 PMCID: PMC5907186 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-018-0318-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-care practice within the palliative care workforce is often discussed, yet seemingly under-researched. While palliative care professionals are required to implement and maintain effective self-care strategies, there appears little evidence to guide them. Moreover, there is an apparent need to clarify the meaning of self-care in palliative care practice. This paper reports qualitative findings within the context of a broader mixed-methods study. The aim of the present study was to explore the meaning and practice of self-care as described by palliative care nurses and doctors. METHODS A purposive sample of 24 palliative care nurses and doctors across Australia participated in semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed prior to inductive qualitative content analysis, supported by QSR NVivo data management software. RESULTS Three overarching themes emerged from the analysis: (1) A proactive and holistic approach to promoting personal health and wellbeing to support professional care of others; (2) Personalised self-care strategies within professional and non-professional contexts; and (3) Barriers and enablers to self-care practice. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study provide a detailed account of the context and complexity of effective self-care practice previously lacking in the literature. Self-care is a proactive, holistic, and personalised approach to the promotion of health and wellbeing through a variety of strategies, in both personal and professional settings, to enhance capacity for compassionate care of patients and their families. This research adds an important qualitative perspective and serves to advance knowledge of both the context and effective practice of self-care in the palliative care workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Mills
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, QLD Australia
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW Australia
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, QLD 4061 Australia
| | - Timothy Wand
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW Australia
| | - Jennifer A. Fraser
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW Australia
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