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The Role of Spiritual Care in Promoting Empathy Among Nurses: An Analytical Review of Research Evidence Over the Last Five Years
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Reza Rezaei *   , Ayoub Ayyar , Mostafa Abdollahi |
| Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Tabas School of Nursing, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Tabas, Iran , rezaeireza7410@yahoo.com |
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Abstract: (1 Views) |
Background and Aim: Spiritual care is an important dimension of healthcare that may play a substantial role in strengthening empathy and humanistic relationships among nurses. Given the importance of empathy in improving the quality of care and patient satisfaction, this study aimed to analytically review the evidence published over the past five years regarding the role of spiritual care in enhancing nurses’ empathy.
Methods: In this analytical review, studies published between 2020 and 2025 were identified through searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SID, and Magiran databases. Following screening and full-text assessment of eligible sources, 14 studies were ultimately included in the review, and their data were extracted. The findings were organized and reported using a thematic analysis approach, and the main result domains were presented based on recurring patterns and themes across the included studies.
Results: Of the 14 studies reviewed, 12 studies (85.7%) reported a positive association between spiritual care and nurses’ empathy. In addition, several studies indicated that spirituality-based educational interventions may be associated with improved nurse–patient communication, increased job satisfaction, and reduced stress or occupational burnout. The most important facilitators of implementing such programs included managerial support, continuing education, and the presence of experienced clinical role models. In contrast, lack of time, high workload, absence of culturally adapted protocols, and insufficient academic training were reported as major barriers.
Conclusion: Strengthening spiritual care in nursing settings may represent an effective strategy for enhancing empathy and improving the quality of nursing care. It is recommended that policymakers and nursing managers consider the implementation and education of spiritual care as part of nurses’ professional development programs. |
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| Keywords: Spiritual Care, Empathy, Nurse-Patient Relationship, Clinical Competence |
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Type of Study: Review |
Subject:
Spiritual Health
Received: 2026/07/14 | Accepted: 2026/08/26 | Published: 2026/09/21
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| Send email to the article author |
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