Interpersonal spirituality in enhancing nurses' and midwives' competence in providing spiritual care; Competence 2

Abstract

This chapter addresses interpersonal spirituality. This refers to persons’ spirituality that acknowledges their unique spiritual and cultural worldviews, beliefs and practices influencing healthcare. The central themes in this chapter involves the education and development of interpersonal relationships and communication skills of nursing/midwifery students by exploring the impact of the spiritual and cultural worldviews, beliefs and practices in the provision of care; additionally, the importance of effective, reciprocal verbal and non-verbal interaction between persons and carers through the development of trustful relationships. These relationships are considered to evoke feelings of companionship, compassionate care and spiritual care attitudes, such as sharing, caring, empathy, listening, touch and presence.