ABSTRACT

The impact of acute illness on the health and well-being of an individual can be ameliorated by drawing on individual spiritual resources. Spirituality often focuses on a search for meaning and purpose in response to changing circumstances. Spirituality can act as a resource in developing coping strategies. This chapter outlines the key principles of providing spiritual care within acute health care settings based on research evidence and using illustrations from a range of health care perspectives. It focuses on understanding and meeting the spiritual needs of patients in acute health care settings. In addition, the chapter suggests ways that staff working in acute health care settings can practice holistically to address their patient's spiritual needs. It is structured around context, organisational issues, spiritual care in the acute ward (focusing on practical examples) and ethical considerations relating to addressing spirituality in acute care settings.