Pilot Study of Chaplain-Clinician Led PEACE Spiritual Care for Adults with Advanced Cancer Examining Spiritual Beliefs and Medical Care Preferences

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of a chaplain-clinician led spiritual care intervention called PEACE Perception, Exploring, Addressing, Compassionate Connection, Embracing in patients with advanced cancer. This pilot clinical trial aims to understand how spiritual and religious beliefs influence medical care decisions in this population. The study is conducted at a comprehensive cancer center and includes two phases focused on participation rates and satisfaction with the intervention, as well as changes in spiritual beliefs about treatment. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the PEACE intervention or usual care. The PEACE intervention consists of two sessions lasting 30 to 60 minutes each, led by a chaplain and clinician. Usual care involves a thorough evaluation of physical, emotional, and spiritual needs by the supportive and palliative care medical team. The study compares changes from baseline to after the intervention using a specific questionnaire related to religious beliefs in medical care. During the study, participants will complete the Religious Beliefs in End-of-Life Medical Care RBEC questionnaire at baseline and post-intervention 2 plus 1 days. Researchers will monitor participation rates, satisfaction, and recommendations for the intervention. The study will continue through completion with follow-up lasting about one year. Participants must be able to understand English and provide informed consent, with normal cognitive status and adequate performance levels to participate.

A Chaplain-clinician Led Spiritual Care (PEACE) Intervention on Spiritual/Religious Beliefs Related to Medical Care in Patients With Advanced Cancer: a Pilot Clinical Trial