Humour Workshops for Staff Working in Palliative Care

Abstract Palliative care teams frequently use humour as a coping instrument. Humour used within the professional team has to be distinguished from in interaction with patients. among staff members working palliative settings is widely accepted and positive effect been demonstrated. Four humour-workshops were organized for unit. All participants completed State-Trait-Cheerfulness-Inventory (STCI-S T) Distress-Thermometer. Before after last two workshops, saliva samples collected analysis of oxytocin concentrations. The workshops performed by coaches based on concept mindfulness nursing routine. Overall 31 out 37 participated. Representatives all professions included, 28 women, 3 men, 24 59 years old. Saliva demonstrated small but not significant increase mean 1.52 pg/ml 1.80 intervention ( p .26). value distress was reduced 5.24 3.90 an = .05 bad mood 11.19 9.43 .36), seriousness decreased 15.06 12.26 .01) cheerfulness changed 16.33 19.03 .02). Despite sample size, reduction significant. changes Oxytocin proved Feedback confirmed care.