Health and Social Care

There is no fasting tradition in the Sikh Faith, but some may keep some form of fast as part of their Indian cultural heritage. In such circumstances fasting normally consists of abstinence from some foods but not all. This should be checked with the patient where they want to keep a fast.

Women prefer to be examined by female doctors, but where this is not possible a female member of staff should be present.

Initiated male and female Sikhs wear short underpants, the Kachha, one of the 5 Ks, which should not be removed; the patient may prefer to shower with them on. Any removal or replacement must be done with the patient's agreement.

A request to remove the turban in public will cause embarrassment.

Both female and male patients are likely to find nudity, even in front of the same sex, offensive. Conservative Sikh men will wish to keep themselves covered from the waist to the knees.

Sikhs have no objection to family planning.

There are no religious ceremonies on birth but relatives will wish to visit the mother and there will be rejoicing with the distribution of sweets to celebrate.  Relatives will be anxious that the mother completely rests after the birth.

This is generally disapproved of, although many will consider abortion in a desperate or shameful situation, particularly less orthodox Sikhs.

Reciting hymns from Guru Granth Sahib will comfort a dying Sikh. The family will normally be present and will say prayers and recite hymns, especially if the patient is too weak to recite.

Taped hymns and prayers can be placed in the patient's room to console and comfort the patient and the family members.

                    
NB. If, for any reason, the patient's KACHHA has to be removed, they should be replaced by another pair.

It is normal procedure for the family to wash and dress the body at the Funeral Parlour.

No religious objections to any of these.

Sikhs are always cremated and their ashes scattered in running water.