Table 1 Four major themes that emerged from codes

Spirituality from the Perspective of Oncology Nurses

The essence of living

Unique

Whole

Universal

Within the context of religion

Recognition of patients’ spiritual needs

Communication

Observation of the patient’s surrounding

Expression of feelings

Health status or diagnosis of patients

Provision of spiritual care to cancer patients

Facilitating prayers.

Encouraging the patients to read and/ or listen to Quran.

Encouraging the patients’ families to participate in the spiritual care.

Encouraging the patients to trust Allah (God).

Barriers in implementing spiritual care

Insufficient staff

Lack of time

Insufficient knowledge and skills