Palliative Care Professionals' Evaluations of the Feasibility of a Hope Communication Tool: A Pilot Study

Background: Palliative care professionals have recognized the importance of hope for their patients. However, they sometimes experience hope as a barrier for end-of-life communication, for instance when patients have unrealistic hope. A hope communication tool (HCT) may help them to address hope during clinical encounters but has not been developed yet. The objective of this study was to examine the feasibility of a HCT for palliative care professionals.

Method: Based on synthesis studies of hope, a hope communication tool (HCT) was developed. Palliative care professionals were asked to use and evaluate the tool by making use of a written evaluation scheme, mainly consisting of open-ended questions. Similarities and differences between participants and suggestions for revisions were thematically analyzed and discussed within the research team.

Results: Fourteen healthcare professionals (nine females; mean age 50.9 years) participated in the study: nine nurses, three physicians and two chaplains. The HCT helped participants to reach depth and address end-of-life issues. Most participants used it for other reasons than described in the tool. They used it when they faced difficulties that related to patients’ hope or hope-related themes, such as unrealistic hope or fear. Participants also gave feedback on the open or abstract character of questions, the assumptions of questions, and the distinctions between categories.

Discussion: The HCT is feasible and helps to reach depth and address end-of-life issues. The findings lead to a revised HCT. Future research should examine the impact of the use of this revised tool on patients.