Spirituality is the way in which a person perceives themselves in relation to others, the earth and the universe. It is also a quest for meaning, a search to find oneself, the elevation of self and the revelation of self.
When people have a serious illness, they are often drawn to seek inner peace and to try to give meaning to their life and their death.
The spiritual aspect can lead the patient to:
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question their identity and their place in the universe
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get back in touch with religion or a higher power
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ask for forgiveness
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take stock of their life
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explore the concept of life after death
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let go
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openly express their thoughts and feelings
What matters to patients at the end of life
What matters to patients during their final days?
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Having their family by their side
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Being able to talk about death
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Meeting a member of the clergy or a spiritual care practitioner
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Talking about their fears
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Being at peace with their higher power
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Not being connected to machines
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Not being a burden to their family
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Having completed preparations for their funeral arrangements
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Being of sound mind until the end
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Being able to trust the care team
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Not dying alone
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Having their loved ones visit
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Keeping their sense of humour
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Maintaining their dignity
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Being treated the way they wish, in accordance with their values and priorities
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Remembering their personal achievements
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Being able to say goodbye to their loved ones
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Being informed of how their body will change
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Being able to prepare their family for their death
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Dying at home
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Not suffering physically or mentally
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Keeping good bodily hygiene
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Having a feeling of peace
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Tips for the family
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Respect the spiritual and religious needs of the patient.
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Take into consideration your own needs regarding spirituality.
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Bring religious or spiritual symbols to the patient.
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Perform rituals with the patient (e.g., prayer, visualization).
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Listen attentively to the patient.
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If the patient so wishes, ask the care team to contact a spiritual care practitioner or a chaplain for a meeting.
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Spiritual Care
Patients who would like to receive spritual care and their loved ones are invited to contact us.
