Spirituality has been embraced in disciplines such as sociology, philosophy, literature and health care. However, nursing profession has historically neglected the dimension of spirituality regardless of its significance in the healing process. Currently, medical institutions offer courses in spirituality. In addition, many medical centers have incorporated holistic health care and spirituality into their programs. In essence, trends towards embracing spirituality in nursing care include situations where patients demand that their spiritual requirements be addressed. Interestingly, patients desire that their mental, emotional or physical should be accompanied with spiritual concerns.
Spiritual care identifies and considers the needs of people experiencing trauma, sadness or ill health (Mc Sherry 11). Similarly, it includes the need to express oneself, self-worth, meaning or for a considerate listener. Notably, spiritual care commences by encouraging contact between people in compassionate relationships. The attributes of spirituality in nursing practice includes forgiveness, love, morality, trust, hope, strength, creativity and self-expression.
Certainly, there are various ways adopted by nurses accommodate the spiritual needs of patients. Sometimes, nurses sing for patients in order address their spiritual needs. In essence, the sweet melodies are meant to encourage the patients and give them hope. Thus, nurses select songs strategically in order to give patients hope, strength and make them realize their self-worth. In addition, the message put across by songs helps the patients to endure pain. Ultimately, creativity is important in the composition of songs sang to patients in order to ensure that they meet their spiritual needs.
Most importantly, nurses pray for patients to cater for their spiritual needs. Prayer is a powerful tool that gives patients hope and strength. For instance, nurses pray for patients before they go for an operation. Obviously, all patients very relieved when their problems are presented before God. Often, many patients recover from their ill health when committed to prayers. Undoubtedly, prayers are important showing patients faith and love.
In conclusion, patients need efficient spiritual care. Therefore, nurses should provide spiritual care to patients regardless of their customs and beliefs.
Works Cited
McSherry, Wilfred. Making Sense of Spirituality in Nursing and Health Care Practice: An Interactive Approach. London: J. Kingsley, 2010. Print.
