Opening My Eyes Building Nursing Student Awareness of Spirituality and Catholic Social Justice Principles
Document Type
Peer-Reviewed Article
Publication Date
2023
DOI
10.1097/CNJ.0000000000001079
PMID
37271910
Recommended Citation
Watson, S. M., Cole, M. A., & Goncalves, S. A. (2023). Opening my eyes building nursing student awareness of spirituality and catholic social justice principles. Journal of Christian Nursing, 40(3), 171–177. Doi:10.1097/CNJ.0000000000001079
Publication
Journal of Christian Nursing
Volume
40
Issue
30
Pages
171-177
Comments
How can nursing academia impart concepts of spirituality, social justice, and personal and professional growth to nursing students? The authors of this qualitative study explored the narratives of 21 nursing students' reflective journals written while students were participating in a global clinical mission. A guided reflective journal grounded in Catholic social teachings and St. Francis' social justice principles was used daily during the mission to capture participants' thoughts and feelings. Data analysis revealed that students discovered principles of spirituality and social justice and expressed a deeper appreciation for being present for others, providing healthcare to all equally, and promoting the common good. Guided questions enhanced the experiential learning experience, fostering personal and professional growth.