Spirituality in pediatric nursing: Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Spirituality is an integral part of the human experience, with particular importance when it concerns children and adolescents hospitalized with chronic or life-threatening illnesses. In the context of pediatric nursing, spirituality is closely linked to palliative care, enhancing psychosocial well-being and providing holistic support to patients and their families.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate spirituality in pediatric nursing.

Methodology: A systematic review was conducted, analyzing the international literature for the period 2019–2024, using the PubMed and Scopus databases. The PICOS criteria and the PRISMA procedure were applied for the selection of articles. A total of 9 studies of high or moderate quality were included.

Results: Spirituality was identified as a key protective factor against anxiety, depression and existential distress. Children, despite their young age, express spiritual needs, which are related to hope, understanding illness and death, but also to the search for the meaning of life. At the same time, parents and health professionals consider spiritual support essential in palliative care. However, obstacles to the integration of spiritual care into clinical practice were identified, such as the lack of time, education and clear guidelines.

Conclusions: Spirituality is a fundamental factor in the holistic care of sick children. Strengthening the education of health professionals, interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of policies that promote spiritual assessment and support are considered essential for its substantial integration into pediatric nursing care.