PHI-413V Topic 2 DQ 1

How can the Christian concept of the imago Dei inform a holistic perspective of the patient within their family and community?
Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and include at least two references cited using APA format. Responses to peers or faculty should be 100-150 words and include one reference. Refer to “Discussion Question Rubric” and “Participation Rubric,” located in Class Resources, to understand the expectations for initial discussion question posts and participation posts, respectively.
American Association of Colleges of Nursing Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education
This assignment aligns with AACN Core Competencies: 2.3

Solution

As outlined in Chapter 1 of Practicing Dignity: An Introduction to Christian Values and Decision-Making in Health Care, the Imago Dei principle emphasizes that humans are both physical and spiritual beings, reflecting God’s image through their existence and relationships. The Christian view of spirituality and ethics is founded on the idea that human beings are made in the image of God, known as Imago Dei. This belief insists that each person has inherent dignity, worth, and value.

In healthcare, this perspective shapes the way professionals view patients, advocating for holistic care that addresses not only physical, but also spiritual, emotional, and mental well-being. By recognizing patients as bearers of God’s image, healthcare providers are encouraged to practice compassionate and respectful care that honors the entirety of a person’s being.

This means that healthcare providers should strive to understand the broader social, cultural, and spiritual factors that impact a patient’s health. For example, recognizing the influence of family dynamics, community support, and spiritual beliefs can enhance patient care and promote healing in a more comprehensive manner. As healthcare providers engage with patients, they are called to see them as unique creations made in the image of God, fostering a compassionate, empathetic, and respectful approach to care (Cunningham, 2020).

This understanding aligns with a patient-centered approach, which emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and spirit in promoting overall well-being (Puchalski, 2014).

References:

Cota Jr., M., Bogue, D., De La Torre, V., Evans, K., Hoehner, P., Hogan, M., & White, N. (2024). Practicing Dignity: An Introdution to Christian Value and Decision-Making in Health Care (Third Edition). Bibliu.com; Grand Canyon University. https://bibliu.com/app/?bibliuMagicToken=hwwt5iPPMtqf3K07mpBoMnZI4Pz2JQvx#/view/books/B1B4SGSSID7LR/epub/Chapter1.html#page_27

Cunningham, M. A. (2020). The Christian concept of the imago Dei and its implications for the healthcare professional. Journal of Christian Nursing, 37(2), 96-101.

Puchalski, C. M. (2014). The role of spirituality in healthcare. The Permanente Journal, 18(1), 48-52.

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