Spiritual Needs of Patients with End-stage Cancer; an Exploratory Description through Nurses’ Lens

Abstract

Background: Cancer diagnosis can lead to an emotional state of distress, hopelessness, and fear which can cause uncertainty. Subsequently, both self-esteem and spiritual belief may be threatened and personal relations are lessened leading to spiritual needs. In oncology, evaluating spiritual needs is essential for fostering a value of life throughout severe illness. For some patients, the most dependable way to manage their illness is through their spirituality.

Objective: To explore the lived experiences of oncology nurses regarding the need for spirituality among patients with end-stage cancer.

Method: This was a qualitative descriptive exploratory study. This includes the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi's Combined Military Hospital (CMH), and Shifa International Hospital. The time frame for the study was April 2021–September 2021. The data was collected through structured questionnaire in-depth interviews. The study's rigor was assessed using trustworthy standards and qualitative thematic analysis approach was employed for data analysis.

Results: A total of 15 nurses participated in the study through purposive sampling from three different oncology facilities. Four themes and 11 categories emerged from the data itself namely; need to address spiritual suffering, need for spiritual coping, and religious path to spirituality, and need for holistic care.

Conclusion: This study deliberates spiritual care needs of patients hospitalized in the oncology department and their experiences of nursing care practices. Oncology patients require a holistic care plan to meet their spiritual needs. Spiritual training of nurse is recommended for their spiritual well-being and spiritual care competencies