Journal of Human Resources Management and Labor Studies

The Human Touch: A Phenomenological Studyof Spiritual Care Workers in the Hospital Setting
Maria Stahl, Kem Gambrell

Abstract
This qualitative phenomenological study investigatedthe perceptions of medical personnel working in midsized acute-care hospitals of the effectiveness of spiritual care workers (chaplains) in providing care for hospitalized patients and their families. Participants were asked to relate their experiences and impressions of the work done by spiritual care workers and the effects on the physical, emotional and mentalwellbeing of the patients these individuals serve. From the research the following themes emerged: 1) No Ordinary Day, 2) Things That Give Comfort, 3) A Silent Presence, and 4) Healing of the Soul. Findings showed that medical providers view spiritual care workers as a positive influence on patient and family healing, and as specialists in spiritual and emotional patient care. In addition, medical personnel reported having respect and high regard for spiritual care workers and their contributions to care of the “whole person”. Interviewees also were shown to value the spiritual support they themselves received which participants credit with allowing them to continue to work in an emotionally demanding patient care role.

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