Spirituality in Nursing: Its Level and Impact on Nurses’ Well-being
Kathryn D. Laxamana *
Palawan State University Graduate School, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, 5300, Philippines.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: This study explores the level of spirituality among registered nurses and its relationship to their personal well-being and professional practice. Spirituality is increasingly recognized as a critical component of holistic healthcare, contributing not only to the emotional resilience of healthcare providers but also to the quality of care they offer patients. The primary objective of this study was to assess the spiritual maturity of nurses and to examine how various demographic factors—such as age, sex, years of service, and job position—correlate with spirituality in the clinical setting.
Study Design: Descriptive statistics, including frequency counts, percentages, and rankings, were used to analyze demographic data. Inferential statistics, specifically the chi-square test of independence, were applied to explore associations between demographic variables and levels of spiritual maturity.
Place and Duration of Study: MMG-PPC Cooperative Hospital and ACE Medical Center, between January-May 2025.
Methodology: This study involved registered nurses (N=55) as respondents. Data were collected using a researcher-designed questionnaire divided into three sections: demographic data, spiritual maturity, and the perceived impact of spirituality in clinical setting. The second and third sections employed a 5-point Likert scale to quantify levels of spirituality and impacts of spirituality in the respondents.
Results: The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were aged 21 to 25, predominantly female, and had fewer than three years of professional experience. Spiritual maturity was significantly associated with age, gender, length of service, and job position. Female nurses reported higher levels of spiritual engagement, and those in leadership positions were more likely to promote spiritually supportive environments.
Conclusion: Older and more experienced nurses exhibited deeper spiritual awareness, likely stemming from accumulated life and clinical experiences. These study highlights the need for targeted support, mentorship, and continuing education to cultivate spiritual growth across all levels of nursing practice.
Keywords: Spirituality, spiritual maturity, nurses’ well-being and stress, Philippine clinical setting