Theological foundations for spiritual care

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Theology
• Spiritual Care

Background:

• Integrating spiritual care into nursing education is crucial for holistic patient well-being.
• Existing curricula may not adequately address the spiritual needs of patients.
• Nurses require frameworks to provide spiritual support effectively and ethically.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe five theological tenets that can guide the integration of religious awareness and spiritual care into nursing curricula.
• To provide a practical framework for nurses to offer spiritual care within their professional scope.
• To explore how theological principles can inform nursing practice regarding spiritual needs.

Main Methods:

• The study describes five theological tenets derived from a Wesleyan perspective.
• These tenets are presented as foundational for curriculum development.
• The focus is on practical application within the nursing process.

Main Results:

• Five core theological tenets are identified to support spiritual care in nursing.
• These tenets emphasize patient-centered care and addressing articulated spiritual needs.
• The principles are applicable to nurses of any background, not just those with a Wesleyan emphasis.

Conclusions:

• The described theological tenets offer a robust foundation for incorporating spiritual care into nursing education.
• Nurses can provide spiritual care effectively by addressing patient needs within the nursing process.
• These principles empower nurses to engage in spiritual care without overstepping the roles of ordained clergy or chaplains.