Hospice Volunteers’ Spiritual Care Training: A Discussion of Core Competencies and Course Aims

Gratz Margit, Roser Traugott, Paal Piret

Abstract

AIM: A Germany-wide survey confirmed that there is a need for a spiritualcare curriculum to offer assistance in arranging the spiritual care training for hospicevolunteers. This article defines the aims of the course and its central themes in teachingspirituality to hospice volunteers. METHODS: An expert group interview was designedto define the core competencies and course aims. The thematic content analysis wasapplied to extract themes from the transcript and paraphrased into codes, which weregrouped into thematically coherent categories. RESULTS: Spiritual care training for volunteersshould cover the following themes and practical assignments: (1) definition ofcentral concepts of spirituality and spiritual care; (2) meaning of belief systems; (3) spiritualneeds and resources; (4) personal manner and ability to relate meaningfully; (5)referral to appropriate pastoral care/chaplains/spiritual advisors; (6) rituals and creativityin spiritual care; (7) voicing and acknowledging own spirituality; (8) facing and initiating spiritual encounters. Course aims were identified concerning knowledge, skills, and attitude.CONCLUSION: The findings frame the development of a spiritual care curriculumfor hospice volunteers.