Palliative care for Sikhs

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the palliative care needs of Sikh patients. It describes the basis of Sikh beliefs and practices and discusses practical aspects of caring for terminally ill Sikh patients and their families. Issues before and after death are considered and the importance of an individual approach is highlighted.

Sikh Perspectives towards Death and End-Of-Life Care

“…Sikhism originated in the state of Punjab in Northern India in the 15th century and was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji as a reaction to the caste system and oppression that existed at the time (8). Over the past few decades, there has been a steady stream of immigration of Sikhs from Punjab to Canada and a considerable proportion now reside in southern parts of Ontario and British Columbia (9)(10)(11).…”

Global personal spirituality: Concept, measurement, and correlates across cultures

“…For example, Muslim women are expected to wear hijab when in public in many countries (c.f., Shadid & Koningsveld, 2005). Sikhism is characterized by its five symbols (kara, kesh, kanga, kirpan, and katcha) (Gatrad, Panesar, Brown, Notta, & Sheikh, 2003). Many Christians wear crosses across their necks as a symbol of their religious affiliation.…”

Issue of hair shaving in Sikh patients undergoing a neurosurgical procedure

“…Many Sikhs strictly adhere to their religious beliefs, where they follow five symbols called the five K's. 4 'Kesh' (hair) is one of these symbols, signifying humility and an acceptance of 'God's will'. 4 Hair shaving is forbidden in Sikhism except in emergent surgery where minimal amounts of hair can be cut.…”

“…4 'Kesh' (hair) is one of these symbols, signifying humility and an acceptance of 'God's will'. 4 Hair shaving is forbidden in Sikhism except in emergent surgery where minimal amounts of hair can be cut. 4,5 An alternative technique to hair shaving that is well described in the literature is hair parting along the intended site of incision.…”

“…4 Hair shaving is forbidden in Sikhism except in emergent surgery where minimal amounts of hair can be cut. 4,5 An alternative technique to hair shaving that is well described in the literature is hair parting along the intended site of incision. 2 In this aforementioned case, the surgeon should begin the initial dialogue by directly informing the patient of the "Western" approach of hair shaving prior to intracranial surgery.…”