If a patient is experiencing spiritual distress, which definition would a nurse's manager correctly provide according to NANDA?

Spiritual distress, as defined by NANDA (North American Nursing Diagnosis Association), refers to an impaired ability to find meaning and purpose in one's life. This definition captures the essence of what spiritual distress involves; it relates to the individual's struggle to understand their existence, beliefs, and overall purpose, particularly in the face of illness or significant life changes.

Nurses play a crucial role in recognizing these feelings of spiritual distress, as they can critically affect a patient's overall well-being and coping abilities. By identifying this distress, healthcare providers can implement appropriate interventions that address not only the physical aspects of care but also consider the emotional and spiritual needs of the patient.

Other definitions, while related to broader aspects of a patient's experience during illness, do not encapsulate the comprehensive distress experienced on a spiritual level. For example, the fear of dying focuses more specifically on anxiety surrounding mortality and does not address the overall search for meaning in life. Feeling disconnected from community reflects a social aspect that may or may not relate to spiritual distress itself. Similarly, seeking reassurance from medical staff pertains to a desire for emotional support rather than a deeper existential crisis. Thus, the chosen definition provides a more holistic understanding of what a patient may be experiencing when they encounter spiritual distress.