Essay On Spirituality And Spirituality

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Spirituality has often been intertwine with religion but in fact is very different. In society as a whole, spirituality has deep roots. “Spirituality is reflected in everyday life as well as in disciplines ranging from philosophy, literature, sociology, and health care” (Aaron & Phelps, 2012). Definitions of spirituality may vary on some areas however it is seen as the core of a person’s spiritual self. Everyone has some degree of spiritual dimensions that motivates, energizes, and influences their life. It is a basic human quality that has no boundaries. According to Aaron and Phelps (2012), “spirituality is a person 's way of being, thinking, choosing, and acting in the world in light of that person 's ultimate values”. Healthcare professionals …show more content…

These are open-ended questions that ask the patients about their personal spiritual beliefs. These questions are as follows: F-"What do you believe in that gives meaning to your life?" This is a broad open-ended question that has no correct answer, just what that patient believes it to be. Whereas, "Do you consider yourself to be a religious or spiritual person?” has both religious and spiritual undertones. Patients may relate to one and take offense to the other. Studies have shown that many people will relate to spirituality more than religion (Gomez-Castillo et al., 2015). I- "How important is your faith/spirituality to you? Has your illness affected your beliefs?" When people are facing an illness, they reflect on their beliefs and how that affects them. This would be important to include in their daily care. “Spirituality, however defined by the patient, is often a component of reminiscing that may reinforce meaning and value to a person’s life” (Gomez-Castillo et al., 2015). C-"Are you a part of a spiritual community? Does it provide support/comfort for you during times of stress? Is there a person/group/leader who supports/assists you in your spirituality?" People who participate in faith base communities are often the central part of their spiritual being. A-"How would you like me to address these issues in your health care?” Patients may have concerns that healthcare providers will not …show more content…

It is as follows: H-Questions such as “It must be difficult to be sick? How are you holding up?” Questions would follow according to the patient’s response. Sample questions could be “Would there be anything you would hope for even if you were not going to get better or are there resources you draw strength from?” If there are positive responses then the healthcare provider would proceed. O- “Do you consider yourself religious or how important is this to you and how does it help you?” P- “Do you believe in God or have spiritual beliefs and practices?” E- “Have you made any medical or end of life decisions?” HOPE spiritual assessment goal is to utilize a series of questions to assess a person’s spirituality with the least amount of distress (Lucchetti et al., 2013). Open ended questions are asked to inquire about a person’s source of hope, strength, peace, and comfort. It also evaluates their religion, practices in relation to God, and how their spirituality can affect their medical care. “HOPE sets a tone of trust and safety that is often needed for discussion of conscious and unconscious beliefs, values, concepts and practices that may lie at the core of a person’s being” (Walsh, 2010). Accordingly to the responses received, spiritual interventions will be adjusted to fit that patient’s needs. This tool is flexible and easily adaptable to each

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