Chapter 13 Spirituality

TERMS TO KNOW Religion: human-created structures, rituals, symbolism, and rules for relating to God/higher power Spiritual distress: a state in which one’s relationship to God or other higher power is disrupted or at risk for being disrupted and/or spiritual needs cannot be fulfilled Spirituality: relationship and feelings that transcend the physical world

Introduction Comfort in knowing connection greater than self Positive relationship with God or higher power Spirituality core of being Spirituality differs from religion Religion is a significant manifestation of spirituality

Spirituality versus Religion That which transcends ourselves and connects us to a higher power and other living organisms Religion: Involves human-created structures, rituals, symbolism, and rules for relating to a higher power

Spiritual Needs Love • Forgiveness Meaning and purpose • Gratitude Hope • Transcendence Dignity • Expression of faith

Question Is the following statement True or False? Religion is a significant expression of spirituality, but highly spiritual individuals may not identify with a specific religion.

Answer True Spirituality differs from religion as spirituality is the essence of our being that transcends and connects us, while religion is a specific expression of spirituality. You do not have to be religious to have a spiritual connection.

Assessing Spiritual Needs Spiritual assessment Faith beliefs and practices Affiliation with faith community Extent to which spiritual needs are satisfied Initial and ongoing Fosters holistic care

Question Which of the following is the best way to assess spiritual needs of an older adult during a holistic assessment? Observing for clues to spirituality such as religious symbols Asking the older adult about specific needs related to spirituality Reviewing the face sheet of the admission assessment for their personal information Asking family members about the needs related to spirituality

Answer Asking the older adult about specific needs related to spirituality As part of a holistic assessment, ask questions that directly address person’s spirituality and spiritual needs.

Addressing Spiritual Needs Strong spiritual beliefs facilitate health and healing Nursing strategies to address specific needs Being available Honoring beliefs and practices Providing opportunities for solitude Promoting hope Assisting in discovering meaning in challenging situations Facilitating religious practices Praying with and for

Question Is the following statement True or False? It is therapeutically beneficial to support patient’s spirituality and assist them in fulfilling spiritual needs.

Answer True Evidence suggests that strong spiritual beliefs facilitate health and healing; therefore, it is therapeutically beneficial to support patients’ spirituality and assist them in fulfilling spiritual needs.