JAN - MAR 20238THE ROLE AND BENEFITS OF SPIRITUAL CARE IN HEALTHCAREpirituality simply refers to how we, in the essence of our humanity, find and make meaning in life. Spirituality is at the center of everything we do but it is only one component of faith and religion. It is the human ability to transcend any experience or circumstance, yet find hope, purpose and meaning as we seek to see beyond the situation. That is the core of spirituality ... where we root our lives in our beliefs, practices and values to create meaning.Spiritual care is a spiritual practice that is offered in many healthcare settings to support those coping with the complexities of life and health. In a healthcare setting, spiritual care plays an essential role in the services provided to patients, families and staff. This work is done through the work of professional chaplains. Many hold a common misunderstanding regarding the role chaplains play in the healthcare environment. It is often thought that the purpose of a chaplain is mainly to offer prayer at the end of life. However, in today's healthcare arena, chaplains are called upon to journey with patients and families as they adjust to illness and diagnoses and to be the bridge between the medical staff and the families' beliefs and wishes. Chaplains help those they encounter find meaning as they navigate life situations. Additionally, chaplains offer By Sarita Wilson-Guffin, Director of Spiritual Care, Le Bonheur Children's HospitalSarita Wilson-GuffinIN MY OPINIONS
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