Narrative medicine, an interdisciplinary field that brings together the studies of literature and medicine, offers both a way of understanding patient identity and a method for developing a clinician's responsiveness to patients. While recognizing the value of narrative medicine in clinical encounters, including the ethical aspects of patient discourse, Tara Flanagan examines the limits of narrative practices for patients with cognitive and verbal deficits. In Narrative Medicine in Hospice Care: Identity, Practice, and Ethics through the Lens of Paul Ricoeur, Flanagan contends that the models of selfhood and care found in the work of Ricoeur can offer a framework for clinicians and caregivers regardless of the verbal and cognitive capabilities of a patient at the end of life. In particular, Ricoeur's concept of patient identity connects with the narrative method of life review in hospice and offers an opportunity to address the religious and spiritual dimensions of the patient experience.
Tara Flanagan is assistant professor of religious studies at Maria College.
Contents Acknowledgements Introduction Chapter One: Narrative Medicine, Patient Identity, and Ethics through the Lens of Paul Ricoeur Chapter Two: Narrative Identity and Practice in the Hospice Model of care Chapter Three: Narrative Ethics and Practices from the Patient's Perspective: Life Review as Ethical Self-Assessment Chapter Four: The Limits of Narrative Medicine for End of Life Patients Chapter Five: Expanding Beyond Narrative: Hospitality, Accompaniment, and Companioning as Models of Presence with Patients Bibliography About the Author
"Drawing both on narrative practices and on hospice philosophy, Tara Flanagan pays needed attention to the ethical dimensions of life review and to the role of religion in clinical care. Deeply grounded in the field of chaplaincy, in Narrative Medicine in Hospice Care, Flanagan reveals the theory behind her practice, with particular attention to the challenge of welcoming the stranger and bearing witness to the unheard. Flanagan's book is an indispensable guide to clinicians and academics alike and a testament to the power of human connection at the end of life." -- Angel Rodriquez, Assistant Clinical Professor at Columbia University and Medical Director of Jansen Hospice and Palliative Care "Flanagan's book on hospice care is essential reading because it addresses care for patients as they are. It is very important to be present with patients and their families; to identify what they understand about their condition and how they feel about their lives; and to assist them in a useful, productive, and honest life review, a practice Flanagan skillfully describes. This book speaks to the many ways of caring for these patients and should be read by all those interested in providing the best care possible." -- Charles Vialotti, Hospice Physician and Medical Director of Villa Marie Claire
