Hospice and Palliative Care Provider Experiences With Meditation Using Mobile Applications.

SECONDARY traumatic stress; FOCUS groups; HOSPICE care; INTERVIEWING; RESEARCH methodology; MEDICAL personnel; MEDITATION; PALLIATIVE treatment; RESEARCH funding; VIDEOCONFERENCING; QUALITATIVE research; PILOT projects; THEMATIC analysis; PRE-tests & post-tests; MOBILE apps; PREVENTION; PSYCHOLOGY

PURPOSE: Healthcare providers who are involved in the care of patients at the end of life are at risk of developing compassion fatigue, a condition characterized by emotional exhaustion and reduced professional engagement. Research has shown that development of a meditation practice can modify stress perceptions and promote quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate perceived benefits, challenges, and recommendations following participation in a workplace mobile application- and email-based meditation research program. PARTICIPANTS & SETTING: 11 healthcare providers who participated in the feasibility pilot were recruited from Sparrow Health System in Lansing, Michigan. METHODOLOGIC APPROACH: Three focus groups and one in-depth interview were conducted. Data were analyzed using qualitative methodology. FINDINGS: Major themes included program advantages and limitations, challenges that affected adherence, and support for caregivers. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Findings support further evaluation of a technology-mediated meditation program for professional caregivers to reduce perceived stress associated with the work environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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