Introduction/Rationale: Clinicians have reported feelings of unpreparedness to address spirituality in practice despite its profound and well-documented impact on patient well-being. Podcasts are a valuable tool, allowing healthcare providers to engage with up-to-date knowledge conveniently and without compromising the comprehension of complex content areas. However, spirituality in occupational therapy (OT) has not been studied using educational podcasts.
Objectives: This study explored podcasts as an accessible educational tool to improve confidence in addressing spirituality. The intent is to enhance OT clinicians' understanding of spirituality and its critical role in healthcare, and to evaluate if podcasts are a suitable continuing education format for clinicians.
Methods/Approach: Participants were recruited via OT social media and professional networks. This study used a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the impact of educational podcasts on OT clinicians' confidence in addressing spirituality after listening to three podcast episodes. Pretest and posttest measurements were obtained using the Spirituality in Occupational Therapy Scale (SOTS). Qualitative data responses from open-ended questions identified key facilitators and barriers.
Results/Practice Implications: All participants reported an increase of confidence in addressing spirituality from the pretest to the posttest on the SOTS, and qualitative responses highlighted improvements in openness and environmental cue responsiveness. Barriers to addressing spirituality included time constraints, discomfort, and lack of training. Participants reported greater awareness and an interest in continued learning.
Conclusion / Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: Podcasts are potentially an impactful, accessible tool bridging the gap between research and practice, specifically enhancing spirituality confidence in OT practice. Findings support integrating podcasts into continuing education formats to promote holistic, client-centered care, aligning with OT's commitment to inclusive, meaningful practice.