PHI-413V-O502 Topic 1 DQ 2

From the perspective of Christian spirituality and ethics, what is your understanding of compassionate caring that informs your approach to health and healing?
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 the “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 the AACN Core Competency: 9.2

Solution

Christian spirituality enriches our understanding of compassionate care in healthcare by reminding us that healing involves more than just treating physical symptoms. Puchalski and Ferrell (2022) remind us that true healing embraces the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. This understanding has deeply influenced how I approach patient care, seeing each person as uniquely valuable and worthy of comprehensive care that honors their dignity.

My perspective on compassionate caring flows from the example of Christ’s healing ministry. When I look at how Jesus interacted with those who were sick or suffering, I see a pattern of care that went beyond just addressing physical ailments. As O’Brien (2021) points out, Christian healthcare practitioners are called to minister to the whole person, recognizing that spiritual and emotional well-being often intertwine with physical healing.

In my daily practice, this understanding shapes how I interact with patients and their families. When I’m caring for someone who’s ill, I make sure to really listen to their story, not just their symptoms. Sometimes this means sitting with them a few extra minutes to hear about their fears or hopes. Other times it means supporting family members who are struggling to cope with their loved one’s illness.

I’ve found that this approach is particularly meaningful when working with patients facing serious illnesses or approaching end of life. Even when complete physical healing isn’t possible, there are always opportunities to provide comfort, support dignity, and nurture hope. This might mean holding someone’s hand while they process difficult news, praying with them if they request it, or simply acknowledging their spiritual struggles alongside their physical pain.

This understanding of compassionate care also influences how I work with my healthcare team. It reminds me that creating a healing environment involves supporting not just patients but also colleagues as we work together to provide comprehensive care. It’s about fostering an atmosphere where spiritual and emotional needs are valued alongside medical interventions.

References:

O’Brien, M. E. (2021). Spirituality in nursing: Standing on holy ground (7th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.

Puchalski, C. M., & Ferrell, B. (2022). Making healthcare whole: Integrating spirituality into patient care (3rd ed.). Templeton Press.

This question has been answered.

Order Now