Abstract:
This study was designed to determine the validity of the assumption that participation in an interdisciplinary team reduces the stress and lessens burnout of the hospice worker. On-site, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a nurse, social worker, and chaplain from each of seven Medicare-certified hospices in Iowa. Both qualitative and demographic data were gathered. Data indicate that differences exist in perceptions of team integrality and the degree the three professional groups of hospice workers. Literature related to the study was examined. The field research and the literature indicate that the interdisciplinary team reduces stress to a greater degree than it increases stress team approach in all hospices will reduced the stress experienced by workers and benefit patient and family recipients of hospice services.
