Spirituality and the Spirit in Palliative Care, what health care professionals understand about it – Literature Review

Background Spirituality is visible and experienced in the way of life, in the ideas, opinions, and choices a person makes at every moment of their life. In Palliative Care, spirituality takes on even greater significance. Although access to Palliative Care is still limited around the world, it is essential that it continues to be promoted and developed, so that every human being can live until death arrives, and all their dimensions, including spirituality, can be addressed and cared for during that time. Aim The aim of this review was to understand the experiences, perspectives, and perceptions of healthcare professionals in providing spiritual care to adults in palliative care. “What are the experiences, perspectives, and perceptions of healthcare professionals in providing spiritual care to adults in palliative care?” Design This literature review followed the methodology of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), using a two-step strategy. It included qualitative studies such as phenomenological, ethnographic, grounded theory, or descriptive studies, among others. Results Four studies were included, obtained from the MEDLINE (via PubMed) and Scopus databases, resulting in 23 clear findings, organized into four categories. Conclusions Spirituality is a fundamental dimension of palliative care. Healthcare professionals understand that assessment, documentation, and referral are significant elements in spiritual care, and that spiritual care involves creating a connection with the patient, knowing how to communicate and console, allowing the person to adapt to the life-threatening illness process and prepare for their death.