Question

The nurse is admitting a patient to the hospital. The patient is a very spiritual person but does not practice any specific religion. How will the nurse interpret this finding?

a. This indicates a strong religious affiliation.
b. This statement is contradictory.
c. This statement is reasonable.
d. This indicates a lack of hope.

Answer 1

A nurse should consider it reasonable that a patient identifies as spiritual but not religious, recognizing the valid distinction between spirituality and religious practice, and provide care that respects the patient's beliefs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct interpretation of a hospital patient who is a very spiritual person but does not practice any specific religion is that this statement is reasonable. Spirituality does not necessarily entail a strict adherence to a particular religious tradition, but rather, it can encompass individual beliefs and practices that provide personal fulfillment and understanding of life's mysteries. The nurse should recognize and respect the patient's spiritual needs, potentially offering support such as space for meditation or discussion about the patient's spiritual beliefs and how they may impact their care.