Predictors of Spiritual Well-being Among Oncology Nurses in Oman

Spiritual care is a crucial component of oncology nursing, addressing patients' holistic needs. However, limited research has explored spiritual well-being, competence, practices, and barriers among oncology nurses, particularly within specific cultural and religious contexts.

To assess spiritual well-being and its predictors, including perceived competence, practices, and barriers to providing spiritual care among oncology nurses in Oman.

A descriptive correlational study was conducted with 422 oncology nurses from 3 cancer care centers in Muscat, Oman. Convenience sampling was used, and data were collected through validated instruments, including the Spiritual Well-being Scale, Spiritual Care Competence Scale, Nurse Spiritual Care Therapeutics Scale, and Spiritual Care Practice Questionnaire. SPSS version 27 was used for data analysis, using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, independent t tests, analysis of variance, and multiple linear regression.

Nurses exhibited high spiritual well-being (mean, 102.1 [SD, 14.7]) and moderate spiritual care competence (mean, 96.1 [SD, 19.1]), yet spiritual care practices were infrequent (mean, 37.6 [SD, 13.1]). Major barriers included beliefs about the privacy of patients' spirituality (59.5%) and lack of time (54.7%). Higher competence and prior oncology training were significantly associated with greater spiritual well-being.

Although oncology nurses in Oman report high spiritual well-being, barriers such as time constraints and role perceptions hinder spiritual care practices.

Targeted education and training programs are essential to enhance spiritual care delivery. Addressing systemic challenges, including time management and role clarity, can foster a supportive environment for integrating spiritual care into oncology nursing.