1. Religion and Spirituality HTR
Cultural Diversity
Religion and Spirituality
HTR

2. Religion Organized system of beliefs in higher power.
Examples: Ethiopian Orthodox Christian
Roman Catholic, Islam, Baptist, Hinduism, Judaism, Jehovah’s Witness, Methodist, Mormon, Seventh Day Adventist, Christian Scientist, Episcopal, Lutheran, Presbyterian

3. Spirituality
beliefs about self, connections with others, and a relationship with a higher power. Individual’s need to find the purpose of life.
may be expressed through religion but is NOT the same as religion.

4. Atheist and Agnostic Atheist-does not believe in any deity
Agnostic-believes the existence of God cannot be proved or disproved

5. Why does religion or spirituality matter when it comes to healthcare?
Some practices may restrict certain treatments, medications, or foods.
Some may require certain religious garments be worn
Some may require certain rituals before surgery or end of life

6. Examples Jews may refuse surgical procedures on Sabbath or Holy days
Jehovah’s Witnesses are prohibited from receiving blood
Christian Scientist may not use medication
Catholics receive the Sacrament of the Sick

7. Beliefs about cause of illness
Remember when we studied the history of illness…South Africans, Middle Easterners, Native American, Hispanics, and Asians believe illness is caused by evil spirits, supernatural forces, or punishment by God

8. What do you do? Allow privacy during clergy visits
Refrain from imposing your beliefs on the patient.
respect religious symbols and books
provide for support for spiritual and religious practices.