Chapter 11 Spirituality

Objectives Define spirituality. Explain how spirituality impacted the development of nursing. Discuss the relationship of spirituality to current nursing practice. Discuss spiritual needs of patients and of self. Assess spiritual needs. Describe interventions for providing spiritual care. Explain the importance of spiritual health for the care giver.

Key Terms Interpersonal connectedness Intrapersonal connectedness Religion Religiosity Secularism Spirit Spiritual dimension Spiritual needs

Key Terms Spiritual well-being Spirituality Theism Transpersonal connectedness Vocation Wholeness

Spirituality A cornerstone of holistic care As a profession nursing has been strongly influenced by the religious community. Technology and science temporarily lead nurses away from spiritual-based care.

Characteristics of Spirituality Spiritual dimension Spiritual well-being Spiritual needs Connectedness Intrapersonal Interpersonal Transpersonal Theism

Spirituality Versus Religiosity A way of life Denotes limitlessness Fluid Does not require connectedness to an institution or formal doctrine Concerned with the individual’s personal interpretation of life Spirituality is manifested in a variety of ways, some include religious practices. Religiosity Being devout Devotion to a religion Denotes boundaries Solid Defines reality and provides a sense of significance and connected through an institution or formal doctrine Offers external, formal system of support

Manifestations of Individuals Biological Five senses World-consciousness Psychosocial Intellect, emotion, will, and moral sense Encompasses the soul, self-consciousness, and self identity Spiritual The core of the individual

Historical Developments Priests were healers in ancient times. Religious communities influenced: Development of hospitals Organized nursing Profession Vocation Nursing education Technology and science lead health care in the direction of secularism. Contemporary health care providers recognize the importance of science, technology, and spirituality.

Contemporary Views of Spirituality Western perspective Eastern perspective

Expressions of Spirituality Relationship with God (a divine being) or connectedness Need for meaning and purpose Values and forgiveness Love, belonging, and hope

Spiritual Well-Being Spiritual well-being is dependent upon one’s ability to fulfill spiritual needs. Factors influencing spiritual well-being Developmental age Culture

Offering Spiritual Care Begin with a spiritual assessment. A challenge in the busy world of health care Timing; priorities must be established Rapport Data collection Observation Clinical history Formal spiritual assessment tool

Recognizing Spiritual Concerns Response Spiritual distress Risk for spiritual distress Etiology Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness Separation from religious practices

Offering Spiritual Care Therapeutic use of self Listening Taking time to get to know the patient Therapeutic communication Recognize personal values that may interfere with providing appropriate spiritual care. Avoid stereotyping. Use culturally sensitive terminology when providing spiritual care. Include the family and significant others.

Enhancing Spiritual Well-Being Empathy and touch Prayer and scripture Interdisciplinary support Anticipatory guidance and emotional support

Expected Outcomes Expressions of hope, faith, meaning/purpose, and love Spiritual well-being Participation in spiritual rites, meditation, prayer, and spiritual readings Spiritual health does not require physical health.

Spiritual Health of the Nurse The nurse’s spiritual and physical health impact care provided. Health requires refreshment and renewal. Spiritual health is best maintained through conscious, goal directed activities and a commitment to care for oneself.