Death, Religion and Law: A Guide For Clinicians

This practical guide summarizes the principles of working with dying patients and their families as influenced by the commoner world religions and secular philosophies. It also outlines the main legal requirements to be followed by those who care for the dying following the death of the patient. The first part provides a reflective introduction to the general influences of world religions on matters to do with dying, death, and grief. The second part describes the general customs and beliefs of the major religions encountered in hospitals, hospices, care homes, and home care settings. The final part outlines key socio-legal aspects of death across the UK. It is an important reference for practitioners working with dying patients, their families, and the bereaved.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 14 November 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This practical guide offers a comprehensive summary of the principles and practices related to working with dying patients and their families, drawing upon the insights of various commoner world religions and secular philosophies. It also outlines the essential legal requirements that healthcare professionals must adhere to when caring for the dying after the patient's passing.

In the first part of the book, a reflective introduction is provided, exploring the profound influences of world religions on matters concerning dying, death, and grief. It delves into the complex interplay between ethics, religion, culture, and personal philosophies, examining how these differences shape individual experiences of dying, death, and loss. The second part of the guide provides an in-depth exploration of the customs and beliefs of the major religions commonly encountered in hospitals, hospices, care homes, and home care settings. It includes discussions on non-religious spirituality, humanism, agnosticism, and atheism, offering a broader understanding of the spiritual and philosophical perspectives of patients and their families.

The final part of the book focuses on the key socio-legal aspects of death across the United Kingdom. It addresses important legal considerations, such as end-of-life care planning, power of attorney, advance directives, and the rights of patients and their families. By providing a comprehensive overview of these legal aspects, the guide equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complex terrain of end-of-life care and ensure that the rights and dignity of dying patients and their families are upheld.

In conclusion, Death, Religion, and Law serves as a valuable resource for practitioners working with dying patients, their families, and the bereaved. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complexities of end-of-life care, drawing upon the wisdom of various religious and secular traditions. By providing a framework for ethical decision-making, legal compliance, and cultural sensitivity, this guide empowers healthcare professionals to provide compassionate and high-quality care to those facing the end of life.

Weight: 532g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138592896