Compassion is a fundamental aspect of patient care and involves not only showing empathy and concern for patients but also taking action to address their needs (Su et al., 2024). Providing compassionate care means acknowledging the role of spirituality in patients’ lives and supporting them in finding meaning in their experiences. In Christian spirituality and ethics, compassionate care is rooted in the example of Jesus Christ, who demonstrated love and mercy toward those suffering. One of the most powerful examples is Jesus’ healing of the sick, where He showed kindness and addressed their physical and spiritual needs. From His teachings, I understand that compassionate care requires selflessness, where the well-being of patients is prioritized over personal comfort. As a nurse, I recognize that my role extends beyond clinical duties to providing emotional and spiritual support to those in my care.
Additionally, Christianity emphasizes love and service to others. The commandment to “love your neighbor as yourself” reinforces the importance of empathy in caregiving. I understand compassionate care through this lens of love, offering kindness, patience, and understanding to my patients. Supporting them in their struggles, listening to their concerns, and ensuring their dignity is upheld are all ways to embody Christian compassion in healthcare. Furthermore, Christian spirituality and ethics recognize the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit, emphasizing holistic care. I understand compassionate care as addressing not only physical health but also patients’ emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs. Christian ethics also teach that every human being is created in the image of God, which affirms the inherent dignity of each individual (Šip et al., 2023). From this perspective, I believe that compassionate care involves respecting the worth of every patient, regardless of their background, beliefs, or circumstances. As a nurse, I am committed to treating patients with dignity, respect, and kindness, ensuring they feel valued and supported in their healing journey.
References
Šip, M., Kuzyšin, B., Sabolik, M., & Valčo, M. (2023). Human Dignity in Inpatient Care: Fragments of Religious and Social Grounds. Religions, 14(6), 757. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel14060757
Su, J. J., Bayuo, J., Lin, R. S., Wong, A. K. C., Abu-Odah, H., He, Q., & Batalik, L. (2024). Compassionate care during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC nursing, 23(1), 173. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12912-024-01827-x