Spirituality and Religion

Why does Spirituality and Religion play an important role in the Healthcare?

Spirituality Defined as the beliefs of an individual, their connections with others, and their relationships with a higher power.

Religion An organized system of belief in a superhuman power or higher power.

The following slides will give information about the different types of religious groups and their beliefs.

Hinduism Believe in reincarnation Priest ties thread around the neck and wrist of the deceased….may also pour water into mouth of the deceased Only family and friends can touch or wash the body after death Believe illness is punishment for sins

What is a Bindi? A red dot on the forehead is a sign of marriage and guarantees the social status and sanctity of the institution of marriage.

Islam (Muslim) Medications can only be taken with the right hand because the left hand is considered dirty Family must be with dying person Dying person must confess sins and ask for forgiveness

Islam (Muslim) Body faces towards city of Mecca (southeast in U.S) before and after death Only family touches or washes body after death Believe illness is an atonement for sins Circumcision performed when infant is 7 days old

Buddhism Belief in Buddha Believe in reincarnation Believe illness is the result of negative Karma

Jehovah’s Witness Organ donation discouraged All organs/tissue must be drained of all blood before transplantation Prohibit receiving blood or blood products

Christian Scientist Believe illness can be eliminated through prayer May not use medicine or surgical procedures May refuse blood transfusions Discourages organ donation

Judaism Male circumcision performed on 8 th day after birth by Mohel (circumcisor) or Jewish physician Cremation forbidden Sabbath is from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday No surgical procedures on Sabbath or Holy days Ritual handwashing upon awakening & prior to eating

Baptist Believe in the healing power of “Laying on Hands” Believe a physician is an instrument for God’s intervention

Lutheran Methodist Presbyterian Rite of communion is important Communion often given before surgery or while ill

Episcopal May use Holy Unction/anointing of oil (Healing Sacrament) Observe last rites by priest for dying

Roman Catholic Sacrament of Sick (Last Rites) performed by priest Anointing with oil to the sick Abortion and contraceptive use prohibited

Rite of Communion is important Rosary Beads may be used with prayer Roman Catholic

The growing Hispanic population in America are mostly of the Roman Catholic faith.

Cultural & Religious Beliefs should always be considered during the following medical interventions:  Birth  Surgery  Organ Donation  Organ Transplant  Blood Transfusion  Death & Dying

Remember every Healthcare Worker must be respectful of the religious beliefs of all patients.