Creating a safe space on placement for healthcare students to discuss spiritual care

What is it about?

A student nurse thought chaplains only saw religious patients. I realised this was something I should address. I developed an education package to facilitate student learning, reflecting on what makes us human, what are spiritual needs (to be loved, valued, understood, connected etc.) and what can happen when these needs are not met. The package was delivered and developed based on feedback. It also created a safe space for students to explore spiritual care, the role of the chaplain, and support each other.

Featured Image

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Spiritual care is the foundation of person-centred care, ensuring we are listening to and responding to the needs of the person without judging or assuming. Healthcare chaplains, although not part of the ward, unit or department, can offer that advocacy, non-judgemental, listening presence for both patients and staff. Creating a safe space for students on placement to ask questions can allow them to open up about their experiences while reflecting what spiritual care means to them, in their own words and ideas. This way they are better able to explain spiritual care to others. And they are also able to discuss potential referrals with their mentor.

Perspectives