This presentation examines the need for interreligious literacy for health care professionals, given the desire on the part of patients to discuss such matters with their healthcare providers, and presents the development of a course for undergraduate Nursing students to develop skills to engage in that discussion.
In a course that focuses on the Abrahamic religious traditions and that engages the intersection of religion identity with gender, ethnicity, etc., attention is also given to the importance of developing health care providers who care for the whole person. Through guest speakers, case studies, and role playing, students are encouraged to learn about the complex personal experiences and needs that future patients will bring, in the hope that the students may begin to become comfortable raising questions and engaging in conversations that will allow them to serve the needs of their patients and will encourage them to care for their own needs.