Spirituality in End-Of-Life Care: Tips and Tools for all Physicians

Abstract

Many physicians find themselves with patients when life’s final horizon is approaching but feel ill-equipped when they cannot take the suffering away. If a patient has no discernible chance of recovery, praying for healing seems disingenuous, and yet expressing condolences seems premature. Family and friends sometimes similarly grapple with how best to convey sincere emotion without amplifying any awkwardness. End-of-life situations are often protracted and can weary clinicians and families alike with the challenge of what to say. This article discusses practical tools for physicians navigating these situations with a focus on spirituality and the role of chaplains.