Integrated Palliative Care Model for Patients and Families Emphasizing Concept of Spirituality: Saint Louis Model

Abstract

This article aims to propose the model for integrating palliative care for patients and their families that emphasizes the concept of spiritual dimensions: the Saint Louis Model. The author has studied on relevant concepts, theories, and documents, then analyzed, synthesized, and complied to be practical steps by using principles of nursing process. Then, propose the practical steps to 15 experts in palliative care and spiritual dimensions, and adjusted for getting critiques in a focus group meeting with 10 experts before final adjusting to 5 practical steps. They are 1) Assessing, focus on communication to build good relationships and trust, 2) Problem analysis, use questioning techniques and attentively listen to the patients expressing their problems and needs with sincerity, 3) Planning, explain the objectives and careplan politely, emphasis on using clear words that easy to understand until the participants realize and accept to participate in the action-plan, 4) Operation, focus on dealing with problems efficiently, with politeness, gentleness, and respect for human dignity. Let the patients express their problems, and answer the questions, then give them advices appropriately, as well as give them the opportunities to do what they want such as apologizing for what they still have in minds, and 5) Evaluation, summarize based on observing, asking and talking with the patients and families. After that,it was used to practice with 5 patients and their families, and it was found that the objectives were achieved. The results were found that patients and families accepted and had good relationships with practitioners. They could explain their problems and needs clearly, and accept planning and execution together. The patients felt calm, relieved, and ready for passing away, while their families felt satisfied and accepted the situation.