The role of spirituality for patients with cervical cancer: an integrative review

Abstract

Objective: To describe how women use spirituality and religiosity in the context of coping with the disease. Method: This is an integrative, descriptive, exploratory review with a qualitative approach. Articles published between 2016 and 2021 were considered, meeting the inclusion criteria. Results: 60 articles were identified, five of which were included in the final sample. In the analysis, four categories were created based on similarities between authors: Relation of physical and emotional signs and symptoms with psycho-spiritual needs; Use of spirituality and religiosity; Use of other coping strategies; The role of the health team. Conclusion: The spirituality is an important coping support for patients with cervical cancer, being mostly used through religious practice. The other coping strategies were relevant when associated, mainly, with religiosity. This, however, can be exercised negatively, as a synonym of obligation and incumbency to supply religious dogmas. As for the health team, the importance of establishing good communication and creating a bond with the patient through instruments such as active listening and spiritual anamnesis was noted.