Fundamentals of Nursing: The Art and Science of Person-Centered Care Tenth, North American Edition - Spirituality Related

Review Fundamentals of Nursing: The Art and Science of Person-Centered Care Tenth, North American Edition - Spirituality related questions and content

The Roman Catholic family of an infant born with hydrocephalus requests a baptism for their infant. The nurse advocates for the family's wishes to be honored for which reason?

  • A. Baptism frequently helps postpone or prevent death or suffering.
  • B. It is legally required that the nurse provide for this care when requested.
  • C. It is a nursing function to assure the salvation of the infant.
  • D. Not facilitating the baptism may increase the family's sorrow and suffering.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Failure to ensure that an infant baptism is performed when parents desire it may greatly increase the family's sorrow and suffering. Whether baptism postpones or prevents death and suffering is a religious belief that is insufficient to bind all nurses. There is no legal requirement regarding baptism, and although some nurses may believe part of their role is to ensure the salvation of the infant, this function could be rejected by many.