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

The Christian concept of the imago Dei (image of God) teaches that all individuals are created in God’s likeness (Genesis 1:26-27), granting them inherent dignity, worth, and purpose. This belief informs a holistic approach to patient care by recognizing that each person is more than their physical condition they are spiritual, emotional, and social beings deeply connected to their family and community.

From this perspective, holistic care extends beyond treating symptoms to addressing the patient’s psychological, social, and spiritual well-being. Viewing patients through the lens of the imago Dei encourages healthcare providers to treat them with compassion, respect, and dignity, ensuring that care is patient-centered and culturally sensitive (Koenig, 2018). It also fosters deeper engagement with family and community dynamics, recognizing their critical role in a patient’s healing process.

Additionally, the imago Dei concept reinforces the importance of relational care, emphasizing that patients thrive in supportive environments where love, empathy, and encouragement are present. This aligns with the holistic nursing model, which acknowledges the interconnectedness of physical health, emotional stability, and spiritual well-being (Sulmasy, 2018). By integrating this principle, healthcare professionals can promote comprehensive, compassionate care that respects each person’s intrinsic value.

References

Koenig, H. G. (2018). Religion and mental health: Research and clinical applications. Academic Press.

Sulmasy, D. P. (2018). Spirituality, religion, and clinical care. Chest, 154(4), 909-917.

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