II. Definitions
- Spirituality
- Feelings and beliefs, including sense of purpose and peace, meaning of life, connections to people, nature, energy, music or art
- Often includes (but is not limited to) Religion and faith
- Pastoral Care
- Counseling or comfort by spiritual advisors or clergy (e.g. ministers, priests, rabbis) to address emotional or stressful life events
- Religion
- Beliefs about the nature, origin and purpose of the universe often as it relates to a superhuman being or god
- Associated with worship and ritual observances, as well as a prescribed moral code of conduct
III. Indications
- Advanced Care Directives
- Palliative Care or Hospice (or other End-Of-Life Care)
- Hospitalized Patients (esp. Critical Illness)
- Substance Abuse
IV. Epidemiology
- U.S. adult population that believes in God or a universal spirit: 86-92%
V. Evaluation
- See HOPE Questions for Spiritual Assessment
- Joint Commission (JCAHO) example screening questions
- Do you struggle with loss of meaning and joy in your life?
- Do you currently have what you would describe as religious or spiritual struggles?
VI. Management
- Consider addressing Spirituality at times of major life adverse events (or in preparation for these events)
- Spiritual Assessment is individualized for patient and provider
- Patients may not wish to address Spirituality, or may wish to limit Spirituality discussions to others (e.g. clergy)
- Provider's own Spirituality may dictate whether they wish to address this with a patient and to what level