Integrating Buddhist Ethics with Nursing Practice for COVID-19, Khon Kaen Hospital

Abstract

The purposes of this research were 1) investigate the nursing practices for COVID-19 at Khon Kaen Hospital; 2) explore the application of Buddhist ethics in conjunction with these nursing practices; and 3) integrate Buddhist ethics into the COVID-19 nursing practices at Khon Kaen Hospital. This qualitative study utilized in-depth interviews and focus groups as research tools. The key informants included the head of the specific nursing workgroup, 1 person, the ward head, 3 person, and a professional nurse, 10 person. Data were analyzed descriptively.
Research findings were as follows:
1. COVID-19 Nursing Practice at Khon Kaen Hospital: Practices encompassed four holistic areas: (1) medical treatment, (2) disease prevention, (3) health promotion, and (4) health restoration. These were aimed at ensuring efficiency and safety according to three standards: (1) nursing standards (section 2: particularly process-oriented standards), (2) professional ethics for nurses, and (3) COVID-19.
2. Buddhist Ethics in Nursing Practice: The integration of Buddhist ethics with COVID-19 nursing practice involved applying the principles of Buddhist philosophy. This included the four Brahmavihāra (loving-kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity) and the four Saṅgahavatthu principles (generosity, kind speech, beneficial help, and cooperation), enhancing the nursing approach for COVID-19.
3. Integration of Buddhist Ethics with Nursing Practice: The application of Buddhist principles, specifically the four Brahmavihāra and four Saṅgahavatthu, was incorporated into the four dimensions of health care: (1) medical treatment, (2) disease prevention, (3) health promotion, and (4) health restoration. This integration was in line with three standards: (1) nursing standards (section 2: particularly process-oriented standards), (2) professional ethics for nurses, and (3) COVID-19 guidelines, employing a nursing process that includes communication, advice, admonition, and ethical guidance throughout the work cycle-before, during, and after nursing activities.