Final answer:
To address Mr. Mathis' spiritual needs, a nurse should provide empathetic listening, facilitate access to spiritual resources, and help continue his tradition of Bible reading, potentially involving his wife or spiritual care professionals.
Step-by-step explanation:
To provide for Mr. Mathis' spiritual needs, the nurse should be attentive and compassionate. It can be helpful to offer to read the Bible to him or to facilitate access to spiritual aid, such as a chaplain, if he desires. Understanding that spiritual care is a crucial aspect of holistic healthcare, engaging in active listening and showing empathy towards his emotional and spiritual expression can greatly support his well-being during this time. If Mr. Mathis' wife typically reads the Bible to him, the nurse could either help to coordinate a visit or find a way to allow for this tradition to continue in the care setting, maybe through recorded messages or live calls if an in-person visit isn't feasible.