A Qualitative Descriptive Analysis of Spiritual Care Practices Among Advanced Practice Nurses

This study examined how international Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs) understand and incorporate spiritually competent practice across diverse clinical environments, alongside Rogers' Availability and Vulnerability Framework.

Spirituality plays a vital role in the delivery of holistic care by APNs, yet it remains a concept that is often difficult to define and is frequently neglected in clinical settings.

As part of a larger mixed-methods study, 13 APNs from around the world took part in semistructured interviews conducted in 2023. Participants were asked about their perceptions of spiritually competent practice and the Availability and Vulnerability Framework.

A qualitative descriptive concept-driven deductive approach revealed four primary themes: foundation of universal spiritual principles, implementation of universal spiritual principles in clinical practice, challenges in the operationalisation of spiritual care and mental health capabilities enabling spiritual care. The concepts found in the definition of spiritually competent practice and Rogers' Availability and Vulnerability Framework were found to be central to exploring how spirituality might be more effectively integrated into APN practice.

Findings revealed ongoing obstacles to integrating spiritual care, underscoring the need for its explicit, deliberate implementation at the system, management and leadership levels, as well as its inclusion in APN educational curricula.

This study provides valuable insights for nursing management by demonstrating the impact of spiritually competent practice on patient care, provider well-being and operational efficiency, thereby informing evidence-based organisational standardisation and management practices. Policy makers should recognise the value of spiritual care and ensure adequate staffing, funding, support, continuing education and time to enhance integration into routine practice. Ultimately, the study highlights the importance and value added of preparing APNs with the insight and tools necessary to provide spiritual care that genuinely addresses the health of the whole person.