Human Dignity in Inpatient Care: Fragments of Religious and Social Grounds

Abstract

Background: Navigating inpatient care can be complex and distressing for patients, particularly as they grapple with the emotional and physical changes brought about by their condition. Ensuring the preservation of human dignity during this period is vital, as it directly influences an individual’s self-esteem and overall quality of life, most prominently during end-of-life care. The hospital milieu and the behaviour of healthcare professionals can significantly affect a patient’s dignity. This paper scrutinized the concept of human dignity in inpatient care, with a primary emphasis on its theological, social, and regional context, drawing particularly on the Eastern Orthodox tradition and the central European, specifically Slovakian, context. Methodology: This study engaged respected authors in theology, social science, and healthcare to present an enriched understanding of the bio-psycho-social-spiritual components of human dignity. The analysis incorporated a blend of theological concepts, empirical findings, and regional insights to provide a nuanced perspective on dignity conservation. Results: The study illuminates the criticality of preserving human dignity from a multi-dimensional perspective, promoting patient autonomy, acknowledging their cultural and spiritual beliefs, and confronting societal attitudes and practices. It draws from theological doctrines and the European Charter of Patient’s Rights to advocate for a nuanced, dignity-conserving approach to patient care. Case studies and practical strategies for preserving human dignity in palliative care contexts, based on clinical guidelines, empirical studies, and theological writings, are presented. Conclusions: This study highlights the integral role of human dignity from both theological and practical perspectives in inpatient care, advocating for a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to care that values the individual’s bio-psycho-social-spiritual facets. It underscores the necessity for a collaborative commitment between healthcare providers, patients, and their families to foster a milieu that unconditionally supports the dignity of the ill person.