1. Before visiting a spiritually distressed patient, the nurse needs to ask the Lord in prayer for the light and guidance of the Holy Spirit. 2. The nurse needs to pray for the patient to accept the Lord’s will and His healing grace with an open heart. In difficult moments, encourage the believing patient to frequently pray: Jesus, I Trust in You, for Jesus’ love and mercy knows no bounds (cf., 718). 3. If the nurse wishes to pray with the patient, s/he needs to obtain the patient’s permission. Then s/he may pray, encourage and console with God’s word. 4. If a patient experiences guilt on account of past actions, the nurse may suggest the Sacrament of Reconciliation or assistance of a Minister or Rabbi. God’s word such as: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed” (Ps 34: 19). Psalm 51 may also be helpful. 5. When a nurse observes manifestations of emotional distress, the nurse advises the attending physician who may order further psychological evaluation as Pastoral Care does not replace this need. Likewise, because we are made up of spirit, mind, soul and body, psychological assistance by itself is insufficient, when a patient displays spiritual distress s/he needs a Pastoral Care referral. May the God of peace himself make you perfectly holy and may you entirely, spirit, soul [mind] and body, be preserved blameless for the coming of Our Lord Jesus Christ. [cf. Thessalonians 5:23] 6. When patients are depressed or angry over pending disability or death, the nurse may encourage them to verbalize their feelings to God in prayer, 60
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