Question

The nurse is caring for a patient who is an agnostic. Which information should the nurse consider when planning care for this patient?

a. The patient is devoid of spirituality.
b. The patient does not believe in God.
c. The patient believes there is no known ultimate reality.
d. The patient finds no meaning through the relationship with others.

Answer 1

In providing care for an agnostic patient, the nurse should understand that agnosticism involves skepticism about knowing ultimate realities like God and does not imply a lack of spirituality or morality.

Step-by-step explanation:

When planning care for a patient who is an agnostic, it is essential for the nurse to understand that agnosticism is not synonymous with a lack of spirituality or morality. Instead, agnosticism is the belief that ultimate realities, such as God, are unknowable and that skepticism is reasonable. Therefore, the correct option in regards to the care for this patient is c. The patient believes there is no known ultimate reality. Furthermore, agnostics can find meaning and exhibit morality in various aspects of life beyond theistic belief, including relationships with others and humanitarian pursuits.