What would you do (or have you done) if your patient asks you to pray with them? In regards to holistic nursing would you ever initiate and ask your patient if you can pray for them?
I am a first semester nursing student and this is a discussion topic right now in one of my classes. I'm curious about the diversity in responses that this might get, and also any stories that veteran nurses might have.
I see that calling the chaplain in is possibly most appropriate, but what if they are really looking to you right then and there for prayer support??
I will be sharing this thread with classmates. Thanks so much!
I have on many occassions, but like others I let them bring it up. But any patient that is going through a very difficult time, I do pray for them, and usually tell them so.
I can't recall having a patient or family member asking me to pray with them - to pray for them, yes.
I find that one of the most rewarding aspects to nursing is when a patient opens the conversation to spiritual matters - that's when I pull up a chair and sit down. It's interesting that even if I think I'm too busy to spend time talking with my patient I suddenly have time for them when this happens.
I'm Catholic and trained as a Cabrini Minister, the techniques of which are very similar to the 'therapeutic communication' I learned in nursing school. Listen, encourage, explore the person's feelings, rephrase what the person has said so she/he can hear it from you and know you are really listening - don't give advice, help the person get there themselves.
I will if they ask and lead. I however am uncomfortable leading a prayer and would have no clue where to start since I am not a religious person. If they want more than to have me there while they pray I will call the chaplain which we have 24/7, they make rounds and are always happy to help.
UM Review RN, ASN, RN
1 Article; 5,163 Posts
The patient has to ask. If I'm not of their particular religious persuasion, I do my best to get someone there who is. Otherwise, I'll pray with them.