The transformation process for palliative care professionals: The metamorphosis, a qualitative research study

Abstract

During their professional activity, palliative care professionals go through a series of phases, depending on the relationship between the cost of caring and the satisfaction of caring, which can influence both the care provided to patients and families and their own personal circumstances. Being aware of this risk, and implementing self-care strategies, can protect professionals and enable them to conduct their work in an optimal manner. Reflecting on the experiences of these professionals could be useful for other health professionals.

Burnout and Resilience After a Decade in Palliative Care: What Survivors Have to Teach Us. A Qualitative Study of Palliative Care Clinicians With More Than 10 Years of Experience

“…The process of growth of a PCC is often a long and arduous journey. Vargas et al 21 described it aptly as four phases: 1) Prepalliative or motivation to work in palliative care, 2) honeymoon period, 3) frustration and clash between expectations and reality before finally arriving at the phase of, and 4) accepting reality and maturity. Our model of transformational growth goes hand in hand with this.…”

Professional quality of life among professional care providers at cancer palliative care centers in Bengaluru, India

“…[ 5 ] Working as a professional care provider with patients who have advanced cancer has many rewards, but can also be challenging and stressful. [ 6 7 ] The compassionate care provided by these professionals makes them different when the patient has been told “nothing can be done now” by professionals at other settings. [ 8 ] However, the same compassionate care can serve as a major source of psychological stress in their lives.…”

Needs analysis and development of a staff well-being program in a pediatric oncology, hematology, and palliative care services group

“… 21 , 25 – 28 Health practitioners can undergo a transformation with experience, as they reflect, become more self-aware, and learn to sustain themselves through robust coping mechanisms and self-care strategies. 29 …”