RELP 630 - Caring for the Religious Patient in a Pluralistic World (1)

This course provides an entrée to major religion groups in the United States, with a focus on beliefs and practices that undergird patient preferences throughout the life cycle. Topics covered include understanding of the causes of illness, modes of healing, religious rituals, dietary expectations, preferred modes of communication and decision making, limits of physical contact, gender expectations, responses to life -extending technology, etc. Given the wide diversity of viewpoint and practice within each religion, the exercise of cultural and religious humility is essential.