Exploring the Concept of Spirituality among Patients with Chronic Illnesses: A Conventional Content Analysis

Abstract

Background: Spirituality is a complex multidimensional concept, a global phenomenon, and a main aspect of human existence. It promotes coping with problems and facilitates recovery from illnesses. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the concept of spirituality among patients with chronic illnesses. Method: This qualitative study was done using conventional content analysis. Participants (16 patients) were selected by purposive sampling in Medical hospitals in Iran. Data collection was performed through face-to-face semi-structured interviews and was continued until data saturation. The data were analyzed through conventional content analysis. Results: Participants’ experiences of spirituality were grouped into the following four main categories: spiritual relationships; reliance on God; belief in divine foreordination and patience and thankfulness. Conclusion: Spirituality among patients with chronic illnesses is to establish relationships with God, others, and self, rely on God, believe in His foreordination, tolerate difficulties with patience, and be thankful to God. Nurses can use spirituality to improve patient outcomes.