Trends in Spirituality and Spiritual Care in Nursing-A Discursive Paper

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Spiritual Care
• Healthcare Education

Background:

• Spiritual support is vital for patients and families globally.
• Nursing scholars have significantly contributed to understanding spirituality and spiritual care.
• Key research has focused on nurses' perceptions, concepts, and competencies in spiritual care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline key developments, innovations, and milestones in spirituality and spiritual care in nursing.
• To highlight the influence of nursing scholars on the field.
• To identify remaining gaps and future directions for spiritual care in nursing.

Main Methods:

• A discursive paper.
• Review of scholarly contributions and research in spiritual care.
• Analysis of current educational initiatives and policy.

Main Results:

• Nursing research has clarified spiritual concepts and established core competencies.
• Educational initiatives are underway to integrate spiritual care into curricula.
• Gaps remain in nurses' knowledge, understanding, and experience in providing spiritual care.

Conclusions:

• Despite progress, consistent spiritual care provision faces challenges.
• Agreed-upon competencies and educational initiatives offer guidance.
• Further research and integration into policy/practice are essential for effective spiritual care delivery.