Final answer:
Spiritual distress is indicated by a patient's anger toward God or a higher being, change in behavior or mood, and an expressed desire for spiritual assistance.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the field of health, specifically in a nursing context, spiritual distress may indeed present itself through various signs. Reflecting on the question posed about signs of spiritual distress, the nurse would be concerned if the patient is exhibiting the following behaviors:
- Anger toward God or a higher being
- Change in behavior or mood
- Expressed desire for spiritual assistance
Research into religion and spirituality demonstrates that individuals with spiritual beliefs often have better coping mechanisms when facing death or catastrophe, drawing on their hope for an afterlife and support from religious communities. Hence, when a patient shows anger towards spiritual entities or seeks spiritual help, they might be grappling with challenges to their faith or belief systems, which could manifest as spiritual distress. However, signs like dynamic and adapted lifestyles or expressing quality rest and sleep usually do not indicate spiritual distress.