Clergy Views on a Good Versus a Poor Death: Ministry to the Terminally Ill

Journal of Palliative Medicine
Virginia T LeBaronMichael Balboni

Abstract

Clergy are often important sources of guidance for patients and family members making medical decisions at the end-of-life (EOL). Previous research revealed spiritual support by religious communities led to more aggressive care at the EOL, particularly among minority patients. Understanding this phenomenon is important to help address disparities in EOL care. The study objective was to explore and describe clergy perspectives regarding "good" versus "poor" death within the participant's spiritual tradition. This was a qualitative, descriptive study. Community clergy from various spiritual backgrounds, geographical locations within the United States, and races/ethnicities were recruited. Participants included 35 clergy who participated in one-on-one interviews (N = 14) and two focus groups (N = 21). Semistructured interviews explored clergy viewpoints on factors related to a "good death." Principles of grounded theory were used to identify a final set of themes and subthemes. A good death was characterized by wholeness and certainty and emphasized being in relationship with God. Conversely, a "poor death" was characterized by separation, doubt, and isolation. Clergy identified four primary determinants of good versus poor death:...Continue Reading

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Citations

Mar 16, 2016·The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry : Official Journal of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry·Emily A MeierDilip V Jeste
Apr 8, 2017·Journal of Palliative Medicine·Justin J SandersMichael J Balboni
Jun 29, 2017·Palliative & Supportive Care·Donna M Wilson, Jessica A Hewitt
Mar 3, 2020·American Journal of Critical Care : an Official Publication, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses·Elizabeth G BrodenMartha A Q Curley
Jun 8, 2018·Journal of Religion and Health·Sarah E KossMichael J Balboni
Mar 6, 2021·The American Journal of Hospice & Palliative Care·Toni Cipriano-SteffensBlase Polite
Aug 19, 2017·Journal of Pain and Symptom Management·Michael J BalboniTracy A Balboni
Mar 31, 2021·Journal of Hospice and Palliative Nursing : JHPN : the Official Journal of the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association·Rachel L BrazeeMargaret Rosenzweig

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