Spiritual complementary therapies in cancer care.

OBJECTIVES

To review literature documenting the frequency of use and efficacy of spiritual complementary therapies. Implications for clinical practice and research that reflect this literature are offered.

DATA SOURCES

Data based research on complementary therapy usage and clinical articles about selected mind/body therapies.

CONCLUSION

Spiritual complementary therapies are among the most frequently used. Prayer, spiritual healing, and meditation are the most frequently used spiritual therapies. Equivocal evidence supports their efficacy.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Although spiritual practices may not be considered a "therapy," clinicians should assess and support these practices. Clinicians should only pray with patients when observing ethical guidelines.