Christian Science teaches a reliance on God for healing, rather than on medicines or surgery. It will be unusual, therefore, for Christian Scientists to be patients in ordinary hospitals. They will usually seek nursing care at home or in a Christian Science Nursing Home. They may, however, be admitted to hospital following accidents, or during pregnancy and childbirth, and because of family or legal pressures. They will accept medical care for their children where the law requires them to do so. The Church does not attempt to control the actions of its members and the decision about whether to accept medical intervention lies with the individual

Special Considerations

A Christian Scientist will appreciate the normal care of the hospital if it is necessary for them to be admitted, but will normally wish to be totally free of drug treatment. They will probably wish to contact a Christian Science hospital practitioner for treatment through prayer. The patient will appreciate privacy for prayer and access to the "holy" books of the Christian Science faith.

Diet

Alcohol and tobacco are not allowed, although strict Christian Scientists may decide not to drink tea or coffee.

Care of the Dying

There are no rituals or last rites to be performed.

Death

Routine last offices are appropriate. A female body should be handled by female staff.
Cremation is usually preferred.

Blood Transfusion, Organ transplantation

These are regarded as material methods of treatment and, as such, neither donation nor reception would usually be acceptable for adults. Parents would consent to transfusion for their child if doctors considered it was essential.

Post Mortem

Christian Scientists wish to be free from post mortems, unless required by law.