Explaining the understanding of the concept of spiritual care from the point of view of patients hospitalized: A qualitative study

Spirituality has an undeniable impact on healing power, the ability to cope with and adapt to change, and health-related conditions. Spirituality is an essential component of health care; it is critical, vital, and distinct from other types of care. Therefore, the current study attempted to explain the spiritual caregiver's understanding from the patients' perspective.

The current study was carried out in the educational and medical centers of Qom University of Medical Sciences in 2020 using a qualitative approach and conventional content analysis. Data were collected and analyzed concurrently through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 12 participants using purposive sampling.

The participants included 7 women and 5 men. The mean and standard deviation of the participants' age was 44.16±10.1. From the analysis of interviews conducted with patients, 366 primary codes, 10 subcategories and 3 main categories were extracted, which indicated the participants' understanding of spiritual care. "Religion" (belief in the presence of God, observance of Sharia rules, honoring religious beliefs), "Morality" (respect for privacy, responsibility, honesty, confidentiality), and "aegis"(protection, support, follow-up and continuity of care).

In light of the findings of this study, spiritual care has a religious and ethical foundation, and its supportive aspects should receive more emphasis. According to patients, spiritual care entails responsibility, honesty, and confidentiality, as well as considering moral values and religious beliefs as a valuable resource that maximizes patient's self-care control and recovery.