Nursing as a Science and Religious Consideration in Healthcare

[MQ Edna]

Now... this is how I feel and I'm looking forward to other's opinions regarding the matter:

I consider Nursing to be a science and religion should have no part in the treatment we give patients. Since as a future nurse, I know that I will have to deal with pt. from all different backgrounds, as a nurse, I would have a problem not giving a pt. a life saving treatment due to his/her personal beliefs. I would not do it, out of respect, but as far as my own morals go, I would feel incredibly remorseful. The first one that comes to mind is Jehovah's Witnesses refusal of blood transfusions.

I'm not trying to down religious nurses out there, because I consider myself to be a very spiritual person as well, but when it comes to the Nursing profession, unless a pt. request to go to a religious hospital/facility, religion should have nothing to do with the treatment they receive. I'm very torn on the issue and again I'm looking for honest, educated, and/or philosophical opinions to help me decide on this issue.

PS I'm looking for a discussion on this subject, so feel free to go off on tangents away from my personal questions... within reason.

[psychnurse1998]

One day when my mom had been having a bad day. She was on her death bed you might say. She had just finished crying her heart out. In steps into my moms hospital room, a long time friend of the family. Her face all of a sudden lights up with joy and a big smile. As I, the athiest nurse and son looks on, think how ridiculous it would be for me to interfere or prevent this encounter. My moms beliefs were bringing joy and comfort in a way no other I ,or any other medicine could do. So as my friend anointed my mom with holy water and prayed with her, I just stood by the bedside smiling approvingly at both. I wasnt thinking about addressing spiritual issues in care plans, I was motivated by common sense and care for an individual, my mom. Still I think nursing should stick to science and it is the job of theologians or believers to adminster to spiritual needs of a patient. I also think adults should not deny children medical care, because of their beliefs. I draw the line when adults deny medical care to their children on account of their religious beliefs, I dont think adults should have that say over the life a child.