Clinical Assessment of Spiritual Care Needs: A Cross-sectional Study Focusing on Patient Experiences

Author : Nesibe imekolu, Raşit Gündoğdu

Abstract :Introduction: Spirituality encompasses a person’s interaction with themselves and others, their place in the universe, and their efforts to question and understand the meaning of life and their experiences. Although the concepts of spirituality and religion are sometimes used interchangeably, spirituality is accepted as a broader concept than traditional religious affiliation. With the introduction of a holistic approach to healthcare, the spiritual dimension of individuals has gained importance. There are still unanswered questions regarding the extent to which spiritual care should be provided in nursing and its content. Identifying the spiritual care needs of patients is important in guiding the answers to these questions. In this context, the aim of this study is to identify the spiritual care needs of patients receiving professional healthcare services. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 273 patients treated at a research hospital in Istanbul between April and May 2025. Data were collected using an Information Form and the Patient Spiritual Needs Assessment Scale (PSNAS). Data were analyzed using descriptive and comparative methods in the SPSS software package. Results: 49.4% of participants (n=161) were female, and the average age was 48.29 ± 12.95. The average total HMGDÖ score for participants was 64.16±16.10. The subdimensions of the scale were as follows: “Divine” subdimension 11.24 ± 3.86, “Appreciation of Art and Beauty” subdimension 8.24 ± 2.86, “Meaning and Purpose” subdimension 7.30 ± 2.48 the “Love and Belonging” subscale was 14.67±3.97, the “Death and Resolve” subscale was 10.09±3.25, and the “Positivity/Gratitude/Hope/Peace” subscale was 12.52±3.52 points. Statistically significant differences were found between spiritual need level and gender, marital status, chronic illness, and expectation of spiritual support from nurses.

Keywords :Spiritual Care Needs of Patients Receiving Professional Healthcare Services

Conference Name :International Conference on Community-Based Nursing Practice and Primary Health Care (ICCBNPPHC-25)

Conference Place London, UK

Conference Date 9th Sep 2025