Spiritual needs of the Chinese stroke survivors in holistic care

Objective:To explore the spiritual needs of the Chinese stroke survivors in holistic care during hospitalization and in transition to home.Methods:It was a qualitative study using the phenomenological method.Fifteen stroke survivors were interviewed.Spiritual meaning units reflecting the lived experiences of these informants were obtained through thematic analysis.Results:Three themes regarding spiritual needs were identified:1.suddenness of bodily insults evoked spiritual distress;2.Chinese culture shaped the spiritual needs;3.paradoxical family and social connectedness.Conclusion:Suddenness of the stroke episodes with its consequences is the breaking point for holism,evoking an individual's psychological and spiritual distress.The findings identifies the attributes of spiritual needs which is shaped by Chinese culture.These attributes can provide positive impetus by promoting the "let go" feeling,inner peace and hope.Family participation and love is an important connecting agent.Holistic care should embrace Chinese culture in shaping spiritual care with the involvement of family.