Getting it right: oncology nurses’ understanding of spirituality

AIM: To explore oncology nurses' understanding of spirituality in order to shed some light on this complex area. METHOD: The study used a qualitative cross-sectional design, inspired by a grounded theory approach. A non-probability sample of seven nurses took part in a focus group and individual semi-structured interviews. Inspired by the framework analysis technique, the data were displayed and reduced to underlying themes. FINDINGS: Five major themes were identified: understanding of spirituality, the nurses' own spirituality, skills required, constraints and barriers to providing spiritual care, and education and support needs. The study found diverse definitions of spirituality, which was viewed as a vague and ambiguous concept, with some participants finding it difficult to differentiate between spirituality and religion. The impact of nurses' own spirituality was also uncovered, with unique findings of guilt, inadequacy, and stress in attempting to address patients' spiritual needs. Lack of time was seen as the main barrier to addressing spiritual needs, along with the emotional demands on the nurse, and a lack of training and education. CONCLUSION: The study finds a need for improved education in spirituality and spiritual care.