Chapter 35: Spiritual Health Flashcards
Spirituality
is a broad term that focuses on the meaning in life, death, and existence
Religion
an organized, structured method of practicing faith in which an individual expresses his or her spirituality
strong spiritual health has been shown to
decrease pain levels, increase quality of life, lower anxiety associated with chronic conditions, and even prolong years of survival after diagnosis with a terminal illness
Florence Nightingale believed that spirituality is an
energy force that is a necessity for a healthy hospital environment. She believed it is just as important to care for someone’s spiritual health as it is to care for his or her physical health
Evidence shows that higher levels of spiritual health can
decrease pain levels, lower anxiety, increase compliance with treatment regimens, lower mortality rates, and increase quality of life.
5 Spirituality Concepts
Self-Transcendence
Connectedness
Inner Strength
Faith and Hope
Meaning/Purpose in Life
3 types to promote spirituality
connecting with oneself, connecting with others,
connecting with a higher being
Religion can be viewed as a
structure in which people can express their spirituality. It is an organized system of beliefs, practices, rituals, and symbols that are linked to a defined system of worship or faith-based organization.
Spiritual distress can occur during
times of impaired health or when learning of a life-changing health diagnosis.
spiritual distress may be expressed as
pain, insomnia, anger, depression, stoicism, sadness, or even the need for excessive attention. During times of spiritual distress, an individual will reflect on his or her spirituality and turn toward the things in life that provide peace, hope, and strength
FICA Assessment Tool
-Faith and Belief
-Importance
-Community
-Addrress
HOPE Assessment Tool
H: Sources of hope; where the patient finds comfort and support
O: Organized religion
P: Personal beliefs on spirituality
E: Effects of spiritual beliefs on medical decisions and end-of-life issues
specific interventions by the nurse that promote reflection include
allowing time and opportunity for self-disclosure by the patient, having an active presence, and being an active listener
Chaplains
are an integral part of the health care team and should be included in all care conferences with any patient experiencing spiritual or moral distress. Chaplains are an excellent resource for the nurse to call upon when a patient demonstrates or verbalizes the need for spiritual guidance.
