Understanding solah compliance and adherence among hospitalized Muslims: A critical survey on the barriers, challenges, and systemic perspectives

Background and Purpose: Prayer (Solah) is a fundamental obligation for Muslims, essential for spiritual and mental well-being. However, hospitalized Muslim patients often neglect this practice due to various barriers, rarely explored from their perspective. This study investigates the barriers, disabilities, and systemic factors affecting solah compliance and adherence in orthopaedic wards, particularly within the Ibadah-Friendly Hospital (IFH) framework. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 203 Muslim patients (aged 20–75 years) admitted to orthopaedic wards of a tertiary hospital. Self-reported questionnaires assessed prayer practices, disabilities, knowledge gaps, and exposure to IFH campaigns. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Findings: More than half (52.2%) of patients did not perform any prayers, while 36.1% performed some, citing Subuh and Asr as the most difficult. Barriers included mobility limitations (p=0.009), toileting challenges (p=0.009), knowledge gaps about rukhsah (p=0.031), insufficient assistance (p=0.006), and embarrassment (p=0.035). Lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol use (p=0.001 and p=0.034) further impacted adherence. Exposure to IFH campaigns improved compliance (p=0.019). Contributions: This study highlights the need for education, tailored assistance, and improved hospital infrastructure. Strengthening IFH initiatives and integrating Muslim chaplainship can enhance solah adherence, fostering holistic care for Muslim patients.