Self-care principles for providers of palliative care
Self-care principles for providers of palliative care
There are 7 principles that can help providers avoid stress and burnout shown in Box 10.2.
The personalities and temperaments of a provider of palliative care and any given patient will not always be compatible. Providers should not hesitate to seek support from a colleague to deal with patients who they find difficult, do not understand or do not like. This respects the needs of these patients, while striving to achieve good care.
Providers who have personal difficulties or who are concerned about burnout should consult their own medical practitioner, a trusted colleague or a professional support program (see Debriefing). Reluctance to admit to difficulties is a common problem, which sometimes affects the health of providers. Wisdom and humility are components of sensible self-care.
Principles to help avoid stress and burnout (Box 10.2)
Ensure adequate education, training and opportunities for skill development. Limit workload to appropriate levels. Where possible, vary work to enhance satisfaction and intellectual stimulation. Take regular annual leave holidays, long-service and/or sabbatical leave, and pursue alternative interests or hobbies to enhance fulfilment. Develop realistic expectations of the degree of support you can provide to dying patients, and understand what the threat of death, aloneness and meaninglessness, and personal freedom mean to you. Identify mentors, colleagues and family you can use (when appropriate) to debrief regarding difficult situations. Create regular opportunities to reflect on practice with an appropriate professional (not an immediate colleague). |
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