Conceptual Structure of the Physical Dimension of Spiritual Care Based on verses and narrations with Emphasis on Chronic Physical Diseases

 Spiritual care is one of the treatment methods used with spiritual intervention to improve patients both physically and mentally. Many studies have been done on the role of spiritual care in improving the physical and mental well-being of chronic physical patients. The present study aimed to find out the conceptual structure of the spiritual dimension of spiritual care based on verses and narrations to obtain this conceptual structure and adapt it to chronic physical diseases (cancer and chronic kidney disease).

 This study was conducted as a qualitative content analysis. In the current study, the verses and narrations that were most consistent with the concept of spiritual care were extracted, then the research categories were identified and coded. The unit of analysis in this research was the theme.

 The results of the study showed that based on the coding in the physical category of spiritual care and chronic physical illness, 13 coding concepts and 4 categories were obtained. Findings included nutrition (6 concepts), sleep
(2 concepts), observing hygiene (2 concepts) and healthy recreation (3 concepts).

 Inferred verses and narratives suggested that the physical dimension of spiritual care (nutrition, sleep, healthy recreation and observing hygiene) can be used as behaviors that are effective in the treatment of chronic physical illnesses. Medical policymakers should pay attention to religious teachings to ensure the health of chronically ill patients.