What role does spiritual care play in end-of-life nursing, and when should chaplaincy be involved?

• A. Addresses meaning, comfort, beliefs, rituals; involve chaplaincy when families request or needs beyond nursing care
• B. Spiritual care is optional and rarely used
• C. Chaplaincy should direct medical decisions
• D. Spiritual care is only for people with specific religions

Answer: (A)

Spiritual care in end-of-life nursing centers on honoring what gives a person meaning, comfort, and connection as life nears its end. It involves listening to beliefs, values, and hopes; supporting religious or cultural practices; and addressing existential concerns such as distress, purpose, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Nurses assess spiritual needs as part of holistic care, provide presence, and help facilitate conversations about goals of care in ways that respect the patient’s beliefs. Facilitating rituals, prayers, or sacraments and coordinating with supports that align with the patient’s values are important parts of this role.

Chaplaincy involvement is appropriate when a patient or family requests spiritual support or when needs go beyond what nursing care can provide, such as coordinating sacred rituals or rites, guiding difficult conversations about meaning or end-of-life decisions, and helping manage spiritual distress. Chaplains complement the care team by offering specialized spiritual support, not by directing medical treatment, and their involvement should be inclusive of all beliefs and worldviews, not limited to specific religions.