Spirituality in Professional Patient-Centered Care for Adults with Primary Brain Tumors: An Exploratory Scoping Review

Abstract

People with primary brain tumors face spiritual challenges due to neuro-cognitive disturbances such as aphasia and rapid neurological deterioration. This scoping review aimed to map the evidence regarding professional spiritual care in this neuro-oncological population. The literature search was conducted utilizing two databases (PubMed, CINAHL) and two peer-reviewed journals (‘Spiritual Care’, ‘Journal of Religion and Health’). In total, 27 studies were analyzed, and five thematic categories were identified: (1) spiritual needs, (2) integrating the spiritual dimension in care, (3) spiritual care generalist interventions, (4) spiritual care specialist interventions, (5) assessments. Early integration of spiritual care and specific training are important.