Spiritual Care Providers as Full Partners in Whole-System Interventions.
Narrative inquiry in bioethics January 1, 2020 DOI: 10.1353/nib.2020.0000 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA commentary on 12 accounts of near-death experiences highlights that none of the individuals reported being visited by a clergy member or chaplain, even though many disclosed their experience to medical staff. Spiritual caregivers are trained to support patients and families, offering affirmation and a space for wondering, and spiritual health is described as an essential part of whole-body care. The author reflects on how chaplains could better minister to patients who have had a near-death phenomenon.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Commentary Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 12 |
| Population | Individuals who have had a near-death experience |
| Key finding | Argues that none of the 12 near-death experiencers reported being visited by a clergy member or chaplain, despite many disclosing their experience to medical staff. |
Abstract
In this commentary, I reflect on 12 stories from individuals who have had a near-death experience, and I describe how the ministry of the spiritual caregiver can aide patients who experience a near-death phenomenon. Spiritual care providers are trained to support patients and family members and promote a sense of peace and comfort. They offer affirmation while promoting a space for wondering. Spiritual health is an essential component of a whole-body system. The experiences of the 12 authors have much in common, but perhaps most surprising is the omission of any clergy or chaplains being called on despite many of the authors disclosing their NDE to physicians and nurses.