Abstract
Previous spirituality studies have mostly been conducted in a Western context (Moberg 2002; Koenig et al. 2012). However, an increasing number of studies are originating from Middle Eastern countries (Koenig et al. 2012). There is a need to review the current status of Middle Eastern research to identify priorities for future research. A search was conducted in two electronic databases: CINAHL and Medline. A final sample of 28 articles was included in the review. Eighteen articles reported on quantitative studies and ten reported on qualitative studies. The majority of previous research has been conducted in Iran (n = 16) and Jordan (n = 6). A total of 3096 participants were included in the studies ranging from 2004 to 2017. Two studies were randomised controlled trials. Most of the qualitative studies aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the concept of spirituality from a Muslim-Arabic perspective. Qualitative findings have conceptualised spirituality as meaning in life, connection, peace and transcendence. In conclusion, there are both differences and similarities between Middle Eastern and Western research on spiritualty and health. Further exploration is warranted to include comparative studies between patient and nurse populations in Western societies and in the Middle East.
Highlights
Spirituality is a complex, but important concept
The aim of this research was to identify and summarize the research conducted to date on the topic of spirituality and health within a Middle Eastern context
Nine studies were conducted with cancer patients, 4 of which were women with breast cancer and 1 study was with breast cancer survivors
Summary
Spirituality is a complex, but important concept. Its importance is reflected in the increased research on the topic (Lucchetti and Lucchetti 2014), as well as the inclusion of spirituality and spiritual care in healthcare policy across the globe. The National Health Service (NHS) Scotland published an educational document for healthcare staff (NHS 2009). The government in Manitoba in Canada, published a list of core competencies for spiritual health care practitioners (Manitoba’s Spiritual Health Care Partners 2017). Many professional regulatory bodies include the provision of spiritual care in their recommendations and guidance to healthcare professionals. The International Council of Nurses refers to spiritual care in their Code of Ethics document (ICN 2012). In the UK, the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
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