The Impact of a Spiritual Approach in Nursing on Patient Well-Being
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Abstract
Nursing care should integrate physical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions to enhance patient well-being. Spirituality has been shown to positively influence healing, reduce anxiety, and provide meaning during illness. In Islamic-based hospital environments, such as RS PKU Muhammadiyah Gombong, implementing the Muhammadiyah-Aisyiyah Standards of Hospital Services is vital but faces challenges such as limited understanding among nurses and lack of standardization. This study aims to explore the impact of spiritual approaches in nursing care on patients’ emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. This descriptive observational study involved 78 respondents, comprising nurses and patients selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via observations, in-depth interviews, and validated questionnaires, focusing on ten components of spiritual care. Descriptive statistical methods were used to analyze the implementation patterns and their impact on patient well-being. Findings revealed that nurses predominantly implemented spiritual care components effectively, with high adherence in practices such as initiating interactions with Islamic greetings (92%), providing spiritual support (89%), and creating environments conducive to worship (90%). However, aspects such as assessing patients' spiritual needs (75%) and educating them on worship during illness (77%) were less frequently addressed, often delegated to the hospital's spiritual care department. Patients reported enhanced emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being due to these practices. The integration of spiritual approaches in nursing care significantly supports patient well-being, strengthening the nurse-patient relationship and fostering holistic recovery. However, greater focus is needed on directly addressing patients' spiritual needs and providing education on the importance of worship during illness. Continuous training and development of standardized guidelines are essential to optimize the implementation of spiritual care in nursing practice.
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