2023-10-22 23:15:02
Patients who attend certain emergency departments in the Vancouver, British Columbia region can now meet spiritual health professionals there. This is a pilot project of the Fraser Health Authority, which hopes, in this way, to make the care experience more holistic.
We are responsible for providing emotional and spiritual support to patients, families and staff. […] We approach people and offer them our services, supporting them in the way that suits them best
noted Don Cowieclinical educator and spiritual health professional with the Fraser Health Authority.
Some patients or their families have existential questions and are looking for a deeper conversation, particularly on issues related to the end of life, he explains.
But sometimes they just need a little company and presence […] sometimes it’s bringing a glass of water or trying to help them find a phone charger or blanket
he continues.
We therefore try to accompany and support the people we meet with no other objective than to support them 100%. […] We never impose ourselves on anyone. So people have the freedom to talk to us, to relate to us and to tell their stories.
In a fast-paced emergency department, it’s really about being in the moment, he adds. It’s about meeting people where they are, in the moment
he said, specifying that spiritual health professionals are not affiliated with any religion.
Also beneficial for nursing staff
The main coordinator within the department Together Quality Improvement of the Fraser Health Authority, Caitlin Kennedysays the organization was looking for ways to support both patients and staff at a time when the healthcare system is under pressure.
Patients are at the center of what we do and if we are able to provide them with a meaningful experience during what may be the most tragic days of their lives, that is important.
she explains.
According to her, the support of spiritual health professionals can help reduce the anxiety of patients, but also that of nursing staff.
A staff member told me that one of these professionals’ compassion, wisdom and friendly attitude towards the team had left an impression on her.
[Ce qui est important] it’s the simple fact of being noticed […] simply to see the person and ensure that they feel considered by the healthcare team
added Don Cowie.
The pilot project takes place in hospitals Surrey Memorial et Langley Memorialas well as the Abbotsford Regional Hospital.
According to information from Renee Lukacs
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