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The Spiritual Dimension of Care in Bioethical Primary and Paediatric Practice: The Role of Family Physicians, Paediatricians, and Neonatal Clinicians

Mayra SANAULLAH, Mary PRESTON, Ingrid WALLACE and Joanne SELWAY

Spirituality, understood as the pursuit of meaning, connection, and purpose, is increasingly recognised as a core dimension of patient-centred care. Despite its non-religious and deeply human character, it remains under-integrated in European primary and paediatric care, particularly in Portugal.To synthesise recent scientific literature on the role of spirituality in ethical primary and paediatric care across the lifespan, including neonatal, childhood, adult, and palliative contexts, with emphasis on the role of family physicians, paediatricians, neonatal clinicians, and family caregivers in Portugal and Europe.A narrative literature review was conducted across peer-reviewed journals (2015–2025) using PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. Keywords included: “spiritual care,” “primary care,” “family medicine,” “paediatrics,” “neonatology,” “bioethics,” “palliative,” and “Portugal.” Preference was given to European, interdisciplinary, and clinical ethics sources.Studies reveal strong patient and family preference for spiritual inclusion in care, especially during chronic illness, end-of-life, and paediatric crises. Spiritual care is linked to better coping, well-being, and decision satisfaction. Family physicians, paediatricians, and neonatal clinicians often lack training or confidence, but are well positioned due to their continuity of care roles. Paediatric literature emphasises family-centred spiritual support, especially in neonatal intensive care and bereavement. Portuguese studies echo broader European findings: clinicians value spirituality ethically but lack structured support and training.Integrating spirituality into bioethical care supports holistic and dignified practice across all ages. Family physicians and paediatric professionals can use brief tools, referrals, or empathetic presence. European guidelines increasingly endorse spiritual care, yet practical gaps persist in training and system integration, especially in Southern Europe.Spirituality is an ethically vital, evidence-supported component of lifespan care in both primary and paediatric contexts. Institutional and educational strategies are needed to equip European family physicians, paediatricians, and neonatal clinicians to address spiritual needs respectfully and competently throughout life.