Spirituality and Coping with Loss

Dr Wendy Greenstreet commenced this research while a Principal Lecturer in Nursing at Canterbury Christ Church University. She qualified as a RGN in 1978 and as a RNT in 1983. Research to complete an MA(Ed) triggered an enduring interest in teaching spirituality in nursing, and later, in health and social care. A second specialist interest in issues of loss lead to further postgraduate study in psychosocial palliative care, followed by the development and delivery of post registration, and post graduate curriculum in palliative care. Wendy has moved her dual interest in spiritual care and loss forward in this PhD study. She remains an associate of Canterbury Christ Church University.

SETTING THE SCENE. Introduction: The Point of the Study. The Choice of Approach. An Outline of What Was Already Known. Involving Nurses as Research Participants. Analysis of Experience Shared. IMPACT OF LOSS AS A CONTEXT OF CARE. Consequences of Loss for Patients and Their Significant Others. Accessing Support to Help Patients Cope. Impact of Loss on Nurses. Belonging as the Means of Nurses Coping. THE IMPACT OF PROCESS OF CARE ON NURSES’ PROFICIENCY IN SPIRITUAL CARE. Belief as the Pillar of Spirituality. Being a ‘Spiritual Carer’. Becoming Proficient in Spiritual Care. IMPLICATIONS FOR EDUCATION AND PRACTICE. Work Culture. Role of Belief in Meaning Making. ‘Openness’ as a Particular Style of Communication. Discipline in Self-Care.