If a family asks a nurse to pray with them, what should the nurse do?

When a family requests a nurse to pray with them, calling a chaplain is an appropriate response because it ensures that the family receives support from someone who is specifically trained in spiritual care. Chaplains are available to address the emotional and spiritual needs of patients and families and can provide a more personalized and knowledgeable approach to prayer and spiritual support.

By involving a chaplain, the nurse respects the family's wishes while also recognizing the importance of professional boundaries and the scope of nursing practice. This approach allows the nurse to support the family's spiritual needs without stepping outside of their professional role.

Furthermore, while praying with the family could be seen as compassionate, it may not always be within the nurse's training or comfort zone. Therefore, referring the family to a chaplain is often a better option to ensure that their spiritual needs are met adequately and appropriately while maintaining professional integrity.