Honoring Life After Death: Mapping the Spread of the Pause. (May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ducar, Dallas Michelle; Cunningham, Tim
• Is Part Of: American journal of hospice & palliative care. Volume 36:Number 5(2019)
• Page Start: 429
• Page End: 435
• Publication Date: 2019-05
• Subjects: the pause -- burnout -- leadership -- compassion satisfaction; Hospice care -- Periodicals; Palliative treatment -- Periodicals; 362.175
• DOI: 10.1177/1049909118813553
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1049-9091

Abstract

Background: Health care is a high-risk environment for clinicians and patients. The risk of burnout increases with increased patient acuity and workload demands. The Pause is a contemplative intervention that has been deployed to foster honor and self-care. Objective: We aimed to reveal how clinicians and educators use The Pause and how it changes systems of thinking or practice. Methods: Using a modified Delphi method, we interviewed 11 participants who had used The Pause or intend on using it. Results: The Pause is being used in 4 continents and many countries. It is most widely learned about by the bedside in practice settings. Participants believe it is malleable and has a powerful systemic effect in fostering a culture of support and honor. Conclusion: The Pause should continue to be taught in clinical scenarios to foster a broader humanistic ethos in health care.