The role of spirituality and religion when nurses care for people experiencing suicidality: an integrative review

Aim: To synthesise quantitative and qualitative research on the role of spirituality and religion in shaping nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, practices, and experiences when caring for individuals experiencing suicidality. Background: Nurses play a vital role in assessing and holistically caring for individuals experiencing suicidality. However, the influence of spirituality and religion on nursing care is unclear. Method: An integrative review was conducted using Cronin and George's framework. Medline, CINAHL Plus, Scopus, ProQuest Full Text, and PsycINFO databases were searched between January 2000 and February 2025. The PRISMAchecklist was used for reporting. Results: Eight studies were included. This review found that some nurses struggled when caring for individuals experiencing suicidality due to personal spiritual and religious beliefs. This was attributed to inadequate training related to suicide care. Discussion: The novel result in this integrative review lies in how it notably brings together and compares evidence across cultural, religious, and geographical contexts to demonstrate that nurses’ personal religious, spiritual, and cultural beliefs not only influence their attitudes towards suicidality but also shape the care they provide. This review identifies a direct link between the lack of suicide-specific training and the reliance on personal spiritual or cultural frameworks when caring for patients experiencing suicidality. Conclusion: Policymakers and education providers need to provide clearer guidance and instruction on how nurses are to care for patients experiencing suicidality. Implications for Nursing and Health Policy: Prioritising spiritual care education and considering diverse cultural contexts is essential to ensure nursing practice aligns with nursing policies and promotes individuals’ recovery.