A Dictionary of Patients' Spiritual & Cultural Values for Health Care ...

Eastern ReligionsBuddhism*There are 3 major Buddhist traditions: Theravada, Mahayana, and TibetanBeliefsDaily practicesDying and deathFacilitatingpracticesFoodHealthHoly days andThe main goal is to reach spiritual enlightenment through meditation andconscious livingPersonal insight replaces belief in God with the complete study of the lawsof cause and effect (Karma)May include meditation or chanting according to the form of Buddhism theBuddhist followsAll rituals at death are aimed at promoting human rebirth in the next life, aswell as preventing lower forms of rebirth taking placeMay wish prayers/chanting to take placePerson’s state of mind at moment of death believed to influence rebirth, sothey will want to be calm and peacefulPerson may not want medication while dying if it affects clarity of mindImperative that a Buddhist representative be notified well in advance to seethat appropriate person presides over the care of a dying personUnexpected death or death of small child may necessitate special ritualsTraditionally, there is a 3-5 day period when the body is not disturbedfollowing deathAllow for quiet time to observe practicesEnsure calm and peaceful environment and comfort, especially for dyingpersonMay be vegetarian, may avoid stimulants (coffee, alcohol, tobacco)Illness is a result of karma (law of cause and effect), therefore an inevitableconsequence of actions in this or a previous lifeHealth is holistic (connect between mind and body); mental cures areimportant.Healing and recovery promoted by awakening to wisdom of Buddha, which isspiritual peace and freedom from anxietyDo not believe in healing through faithNo restrictions on blood or blood products, surgical procedures, organdonation, autopsyMedications acceptable if in great discomfort as long as they do not affectstate of mindWhile some celebrations are common to all Buddhists, many are unique to24