THE SPIRITUAL CARE OF STAFF IN AN ITU

Authors

  • Derek Brown NHS Highland

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1558/hscc.v13i1.12

Keywords:

Intensive Care Unit, hospital staff, chaplain, supervision, spiritual needs

Abstract

In this article we learn how the method of data collection in a study of chaplaincy support of staff in ITU provides a model for such support. We also learn how difficult it is for staff to free themselves up for group discussion. Staff in an ITU are usually aware of spiritual aspects of their work but overwhelmed by the technological imperatives. Without careful introduction families may see the chaplain as a harbinger of doom in an already highly emotional setting. Staff do not always have the time to do the careful introductions. When the chaplain meets with the staff to help them debrief and creates space and time for them to talk about their work this in turn helps them better support patients and families, enhancing the opportunity for those in their care to access the chaplain if they wish.

Author Biography

  • Derek Brown, NHS Highland

    Derek Brown is the Lead Chaplain of NHS Highland and is based at Raigmore Hospital, Inverness IV2 3UJ

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Published

2013-04-05

How to Cite

Brown, D. (2013). THE SPIRITUAL CARE OF STAFF IN AN ITU. Health and Social Care Chaplaincy, 13(1), 12-16. https://doi.org/10.1558/hscc.v13i1.12