Considerations:

Use images that portray religious & spiritual beliefs in a non-judgmental and respectful way.

Recognize that even within a specific religion, individuals may have a wide range of differing beliefs and practices.

Cautions:

Avoid images that stereotype or mock religious or spiritual beliefs or institutions.

For example: a religious figure made into a comical reference.

Avoid using phrases that have overt religious connotations. For example: “That’s not kosher”, “sacred cow” or “come to Jesus moment.”

Considerations:

Use nonjudgmental language when presenting a patient's religious or spiritual beliefs.

For example: Patient has strong-held religious beliefs regarding the use of birth control and requested alternative treatment options. This impacted care by....

Cautions:

Avoid using judgmental language when presenting a patient's religious or spiritual beliefs.

For example: Because patient is a staunch Catholic, they refused to consider birth control as a treatment option.

Considerations:

Use general greetings or be inclusive of all religious beliefs when using greetings.

For example: Use "Happy Holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas.”

Cautions:

Do not assume stereotypes or risk factors based on religious or spiritual beliefs.

For example: Don't assume that because a patient is Muslim, they do not consume alcohol.