Perspectives of spiritual care for nurse managers

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to explore the current status, perspectives and attitudes of nurse managers, nurses and others toward spiritual care. The nursing profession has not defined what is expected of the nurses and some question the need for teaching it in nursing education. The leadership roles of chief executive officers, nursing leaders, chaplains and others are considered. Gallup polls indicate people consider religion very important in their lives, but studies show patients report receiving none or limited care. While the spiritual dimension of holistic care is considered essential to healing, its practice has yet to be achieved. Requirements and criteria are in place through accreditation agencies and professional codes identifying spiritual care as part of the role of nursing, but guidelines for implementing spiritual care are vague and broadly stated. If nurse managers implement agency-wide programmes of spiritual care then clear direction can be provided for the nursing staff. An agency-wide programme of spiritual care practice for nurses needs to be developed not only to provide evidence for accreditation but also to provide guidelines for nursing staff.