Synergy of spiritual ambience, sattvic dietary regimen, homely care, and conventional medical therapy in the holistic rehabilitation of a terminally ill patient with post-traumatic complications: A case report.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the integration of pharmacotherapy with a holistic approach incorporating a spiritual ambience, sattvic diet and homely care, in medical intervention of a complex multi-systemic post-trauma terminally ill patient.

CASE PRESENTATION AND OUTCOMES: A 45-year-old female, declared terminally ill and presenting with progressively worsening symptoms twenty days post-road traffic accident, sought care at Baba Kinaram Hospital (BKH) on July 31, 2024. She exhibited severe hypoxia, severe respiratory distress, dilated cardiomyopathy (LVEF 35 %), dizziness, and neurological deficits, having received previously a dire prognosis from several multi-specialty hospital treatments. At BKH, despite minimal facilities, similar pharmacotherapeutic interventions were administered. These were uniquely augmented by an immersive spiritual ambience, a prescribed sattvic diet offered as 'prasad' (consecrated food) and dedicated homely care within an Ashram-like setting guided by the principles of selfless service (Sanskrit: Niskam Sewa) and 'Knowledge is to serve' (Sanskrit: Vigyanam Sewarthaya). Following six days of inpatient treatment and a six-month follow-up, the patient showed remarkable clinical improvement. This included stabilization of oxygen levels, resolution of dizziness and headache, recovery of independent gait, and a significant increase in left ventricular ejection fraction to 68 %. This profound recovery, achieved with largely consistent medication but within a distinct holistic framework, underscores the critical role of the spiritual environment, specific dietary interventions, and supportive care alongside medical treatments for severe trauma patients. A questionnaire-based survey at discharge assessed the patient perceptions of hospital staff, medication, spiritual environment, homely care, and the diet's impact on her recovery. Patient perceptions of general health, costs, medication reliance, and six-month post-discharge sattvic diet adherence were also evaluated.

CONCLUSION: This report highlights the benefits of a patient-centred, holistic care model. Integrating psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions beyond physiological parameters, this approach significantly enhances overall health outcomes and advocates for holistic dietary and spiritual elements in managing complex post-traumatic symptoms.