208 Concept: Spirituality: Topics Spiritual assessment

Question 1

What aspects are important to remember regarding a Spiritual Assessment?

Answer 1

Spiritual history

• Consider this as an important part of a patient’s well-being and mental health
• Address this component as needed
• Don’t impose your beliefs on other; instead respect others’ spiritual beliefs
• Refer patients to resources as necessary (i.e. pastoral care, chaplains, etc.)

Question 2

What is a FICA assessment?

Answer 2

F - Faith and Belief
I - Importance
C - Community
A - Address in Care

Question 3

What does Faith and Belief refer to?

Answer 3

“Do you consider yourself spiritual or religious?” or “Is spirituality something important to you” or “Do you have spiritual beliefs that help you cope with stress/ difficult times?” (Contextualize to reason for visit if it is not the routine history).
If the patient responds “No,” the health care provider might ask, “What gives your life meaning?” Sometimes patients respond with answers such as family, career, or nature.
(The question of meaning should also be asked even if people answer yes to spirituality)

Question 4

What does Importance refer to?

Answer 4

“What importance does your spirituality have in our life? Has your spirituality influenced how you take care of yourself, your health? Does your spirituality influence you in your healthcare decision making? (e.g. advance directives, treatment, etc.)

Question 5

What does community refer to?

Answer 5

“Are you part of a spiritual community? Communities such as churches, temples, and mosques, or a group of like-minded friends, family, or yoga can serve as strong support systems for some patients. Can explore further: Is this of support to you and how? Is there a group of people you really love or who are important to you?”

Question 6

What does Address in Care refer to?

Answer 6

“How would you like me, your healthcare provider, to address these issues in your healthcare?” (With the newer models including diagnosis of spiritual distress A also refers to the “Assessment and Plan” of patient spiritual distress or issues within a treatment or care plan.

Question 7

What is the scope of spirituality?

Answer 7

Spiritual well-being to spiritual despair

Question 8

What ideas does the definition of spirituality typically encompass?

Answer 8

• a principle
• an experience
• attitudes and belief regarding transcendence (God), and the inner person

Question 9

What aspects are involved in nursing intervention for spiritual care?

Answer 9

• Communication
• Action
• Presence