Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 8, 2026

Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
The spiritual dimension: What gives meaning to patients with life-limiting illness?
Elisabeth Romarheim1, Sidsel Ellingsen2
1Cancer Clinic, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.
Background:
Including the spiritual dimension as a part of patient care is a key principle in palliative care. However, studies have shown that this aspect of care is often neglected, although healthcare professionals have a responsibility to provide holistic care.
Aim:
Explore what gives meaning to patients living with severe incurable disease.
Method:
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients suffering from life-threatening illness. All had cancer as main diagnosis. Data were analysed using a phenomenological-hermeneutic method described by Lindseth and Norberg.
Findings:
The analysis resulted in four main themes: previous life experiences, feeling significant to others, feeling prepared for end of life and life-giving impressions.
Conclusion:
Experiences, beliefs, impressions and relationships provide meaning to patients living with severe incurable disease. Focusing on these dimensions of spirituality can help healthcare professionals to understand and provide spiritual care. Spiritual care encompasses being open and sensitive to what patients express and focussing on what is important to the individual.
Related Concept Videos
Ethical Issues
Ethical Concerns in Healthcare:
Dimensions of Health and Illness
Continuing Care
Nursing Ethical Principles II
Consider the following scenario, which illustrates how these principles are applied in the care of Mr. John, a fifty-year-old teacher diagnosed with metastatic liver cancer.
Initially, Mr. John's...
Ethical Dilemmas II
Aims Of Nursing