Pastoral care of the rehabilitation patient.

The spiritual needs and resources of the rehabilitation patient vary. Several important spiritual issues tend to emerge for most patients: (a) purpose ("Why did God let this happen to me?"), (b) punishment ("Why is God punishing me?"), and (c) pain ("Why doesn't God stop my suffering?"). This article explores ways in which pastoral care can assist patients in working through these issues and maximizing their spiritual rehabilitative potential. The role of the rehabilitation nurse in this process is discussed.