Compassionate caring is an important part of the approach to health and healing from the perspective of Christian spirituality and ethics. The foundation for compassionate care is the responsibility to love one another (John 13:34–35), which lies at the heart of Christian teaching. Since each person is created in the image of God (imago Dei), they all possess essential worth and dignity, which is what it means to care with compassion (Genesis 1:27). This idea demands that nurses treat every patient with compassion, dignity, and understanding, regardless of their circumstances or physical state.
A comprehensive approach to health is another aspect of compassionate care, attending to patients’ emotional, mental, and spiritual needs in addition to their physical conditions. In order to achieve complete well-being, the holistic nursing approach stresses the interdependence of the body, mind, and spirit (Dossey & Keegan, 2016). The holistic approach makes sure that patients receive care that goes beyond clinical duties and includes providing them with comfort, dignity, and spiritual support—especially in difficult or dying conditions.
In addition, Jesus’ actions demonstrate the Christian concept of selfless service, which emphasizes helping others without anticipating anything in return (Matthew 25:40). Because of this ethic, nurses are motivated to serve patients with humility and sacrifice, putting their health first. In this sense, nursing is shaped by Christian spirituality, which focuses on love, compassion, and helping others.
References:
Dossey, B. M., & Keegan, L. (2016). Holistic nursing: A handbook for practice (7th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Holy Bible, New International Version. (2011). John 13:34-35, Genesis 1:27, Matthew 25:40. Zondervan.