Elizabeth Johnston Taylor, PhD, RN discusses the subtle intricacies of navigating the patient-healthcare provider relationship with regard to addressing the spiritual needs of the patient in an effective yet sensitive and appropriate manner. Challenging the practice of avoiding discussion of religion in the healthcare setting, she advocates a two-tiered plan of assessment for spiritual beliefs. First, the healthcare professional actively inquires into the spiritual status of the patient, and second, follows with asking how he or she can help to facilitate the best possible care. From the Series:Bioethics Grand Rounds