Publication

Compassionate Presence in Seriously Ill Cancer Patients.

Journal Paper/Review - Jan 19, 2024

Units
PubMed
Doi
Contact

Citation
Renz M, Gloggner C, Büche D, Renz U. Compassionate Presence in Seriously Ill Cancer Patients. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024; 41:1408-1422.
Type
Journal Paper/Review (English)
Journal
Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024; 41
Publication Date
Jan 19, 2024
Issn Electronic
1938-2715
Pages
1408-1422
Brief description/objective

: Compassion is a relational response to patients' suffering. Palliative care focuses not only on skills but also on compassion. Nevertheless, incorporated patient perspectives are largely missing from existing research. : Our mixed-method exploratory study in a major Swiss cancer center sought to better understand compassionate presence, its benefits and challenges for patients and providers (ie, close relatives, close friends, and professionals-all referred to here as providers). It also investigated providers' motivation. : Twelve multidisciplinary, specially trained professionals interviewed 50 patients who had received compassionate presence. All patients had advanced cancer with risk of death. Providers were also interviewed. Data on the positive and burdensome effects of compassionate presence on patients and providers were gathered using a specific protocol. This also served to record patients' characteristics and providers' motivations to give compassion and whether providers felt sustained (eg, by nature). : The study suggests a high impact of compassionate presence with benefits on patients (50/50) and on providers (49/50). Enhanced connectedness was evident not only in the patient-provider relationship (38/50) but also, for instance, in an increased ability to love (8/50) or in an intensified solidarity (29/50). A considerable number of patients and providers experienced mental-spiritual change but also burdensome effects (eg, ambivalences). Providers showed a range of motivations. : Compassion is not only necessary in existential crises and near death, but also happens and takes considerable effects precisely in such situations.