At the LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans School of Nursing, wellness extends far beyond the classroom or clinic. The school recognizes that spiritual well-being – whether rooted in faith, mindfulness or reflection – is vital to the personal and professional growth of nurses and future health care leaders.
“Our goal is to create an inclusive and respectful academic environment that welcomes all, regardless of religious beliefs or practices,” says Kendra M. Barrier, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, Associate Dean for Engagement and Assistant Professor of Clinical Nursing. “Spiritual wellness is part of holistic wellness, and we’re committed to honoring that for every member of our community.”
That commitment is reflected in the school’s Religious Accommodation Statement, which allows students to request excused time from courses at the start of each semester to observe significant religious holidays or practices without academic penalty. This policy reinforces the School of Nursing’s dedication to inclusion, respect and fostering a sense of belonging.
A Space for Reflection and Renewal
“Spiritual wellness is part of holistic wellness, and we’re committed to honoring that for every member of our community.”
– Kendra M. Barrier, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, Associate Dean for Engagement and Assistant Professor of Clinical Nursing
A visible symbol of that commitment is the Prayer and Meditation Room, located on the second floor of the School of Nursing building. Softly lit and warmly decorated with vines, artwork and layered rugs, the space offers a quiet refuge for prayer, meditation or stillness.
“The Prayer Room provides a neutral space that helps meet the spiritual needs of students, faculty and staff from various faiths,” Dr. Barrier says. “Although symbolic, it also has strategic value, as it demonstrates our commitment to holistic, intellectual, emotional and spiritual development.”
The space invites pause and presence amid the intensity of nursing education and offers students, faculty and staff an opportunity to recharge and reconnect before returning to care for or educate others.
The Spirit of Nursing Care
Spiritual care is also embedded throughout the nursing curriculum.
“Our curriculum promotes a holistic approach to patient-centered care,” Dr. Barrier says. “It integrates the art and science of nursing with our school’s core values: Stewardship, Organizational Citizenship, Nursing Innovation, Caring, Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence.”
In the clinical setting, this means recognizing and supporting each patient’s spiritual needs as part of healing.
“Nurses provide holistic, individualized, just, respectful and compassionate care,” Dr. Barrier says. “Patient-centered care results in shared meaning and helps humanize wellness and healing.”
