Spiritual Care in Rehabilitation Facilities When people suffer a major physical injury, they also suffer emotionally and spiritually. Their injury may require months or years of multi-disciplinary rehabilitation. The spiritual condition of these patients after the trauma or catastrophic illness they suffered most likely has also been affected. There most likely will be a need for a healing and recovery of these persons as whole beings, not just as bodily impaired individuals. Spiritual healing during physical rehabilitation is most effective when it is supported by a team consisting of Pastoral Care, the primary nurse, doctor, social worker, and the family. The coordinated efforts of the team will greatly assist the patient not only physically but also spiritually. Offering greater spiritual care may start a few days or weeks into an acute injury or trauma, or at any time with the discovery of a terminal illness. It requires periodic re-evaluation of the patient. A team approach is important, especially if it is not clear that the patient will have family support. Often, patients suffer in silence, as they do not want their spouse or children to be aware of the sufferings and anxieties surrounding their injury, terminal illness, or possible death. The prospect of painful long-term care can be overwhelming. Strengthened by the Holy Spirit and rendering care with love, the nurse not only gains the confidence of the patient but also is able to share faith or prayer with those who are open to it. The nurse may wish to share the healing and consoling effects of The Divine Mercy message and value of the Sacraments. Sharing faith with patients is easier when preceded by prayer. 71
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