Exploring Professional Boundaries in End-of-Life Care: Considerations for Hospice Social Workers and Other Members of the Team

Abstract

Hospice social workers and members of the interdisciplinary team develop close therapeutic relationships with patients and families as they journey toward death. During this process, situations can develop that challenge professional boundaries and blur the line between a professional and personal relationship. This article will examine professional boundaries within the context of hospice care through case studies identifying challenges that hospice social workers and members of the interdisciplinary team may encounter with recommendations for how to manage boundary concerns. © 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.