Explaining the Perception of Spiritual Care from the Perspective of Hospitalized Patients: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background and Objective: Spirituality has an undeniable impact on healing power, the ability to cope with and adapt to change, and health-related conditions. Spirituality is an essential component of health care; it is critical, vital, and distinct from other types of care. Therefore, the current study aimed to explain the perception of spiritual care from the perspective of hospitalized patients. Materials and Methods: The present study was carried out in the educational and medical centers of Qom University of Medical Sciences in 2020 using a qualitative approach and content analysis. Data were collected and analyzed concurrently through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 12 participants using purposive sampling. Results: The participants included seven women and five men. The mean age score of participants was 44.16±10.1 years. From the analysis of interviews, 366 primary codes, 10 subcategories, and 3 main categories were extracted, indicating participants' understanding of spiritual care. The categories included religious (belief in the presence of God, observance of Sharia rules, respect for religious beliefs), moral (respect for privacy, responsibility, honesty, secrecy), and emotional (protection, support, follow-up, and continuity of care). Conclusion: In light of the findings of this study, spiritual care has a religious and ethical foundation, and its supportive aspects should receive more emphasis. According to patients, spiritual care entails responsibility, honesty, and confidentiality, as well as considering moral values and religious beliefs as a valuable resource that maximizes patient's self-care control and recovery.

Keywords

• care
• patients
• qualitative research
• spiritual care