Spirituality/Medicine Interface Project

Spirituality, Health, and Medical Care of Adults

Authors: Dana E. King, MD, MS

Abstract

Among the more impressive discoveries in spirituality and health research in the last two decades has been finding that certain aspects of spirituality are consistently associated with lower morbidity and mortality in adults. As a result of this knowledge, clinicians should incorporate an appreciation for the influence of spirituality and religion on health when addressing the medical problems of adults. How should clinicians approach this aspect of care? The recommended approach described herein involves a few simple steps that can be accomplished by any clinician, with the help of a little training. An easy way to remember the steps is to think of “Spiritual-CPR”: Spiritual History, Care, Prayer, and Resources.

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