The spiritual dimension of palliative care.

OBJECTIVES

To review the relevant literature about spirituality and palliation in oncology and to suggest a model for framing and understanding the spiritual themes oncology patients may present.

DATA SOURCES

Research studies, review articles, and books related to spirituality, palliation, patient and staff preferences, family therapy, and culture.

CONCLUSIONS

Spirituality/religion is a significant element in the lives of most Americans and plays a role in coping with crisis events such as cancer. Responding to the spiritual dimension is an important part of palliative care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Caregivers must learn and use appropriate assessment protocols and include appropriate spiritual/religious interventions in careplans.