Question

The nurse manager of an ambulatory care clinic has noted an increased number of visits by patients from different countries and cultures, including patients from Mexico and other Latin American countries. Concerned about meeting the needs of this culturally diverse population, the nurse manager convenes a staff meeting to discuss this change in patient demographics, and to query the staff about any learning needs they have related to the care of these patients. ( Learning objective 3).
a. What strategy to avoid stereotyping clients from other cultures should the nurse include in this meeting?
b. Identify culturally sensitive issues to be discussed in the staff meeting.
c. One technician on the staff complains that some patients never make eye contact, and this makes it difficult for him to complete his work. How should the nurse respond?

Answer 1

a)The best strategy to avoid stereotyping clients are treating them on individual basis.They do not accept or comfortable in cross gender service. Pain killers are not preferred by them. Along with conventional therapy the complementary and alternative medicine has to be implemented in the care to get their confidence.Not using the languages which they cannot understand.

b)Some of the cultural sensitive issues are

• languages which may not be understood by the health acre professional which leads to communication gap.
• different cultural belief
• they think of home remedy
• Mistrust and illiteracy
• Lack of insurance
• illegal immigration
• They expect cultural values like kindness,respect,modesty and good relationship
• They prefer for a welcoming environment in healthcare sector
• A teach back service is very important

c)If a patient doesn't make eye contact being a healthcare provider find the reason behind it like

• whether the patient is comfortable in undergoing the procedures and briefly explained
• is it an opposite gender like a female patient tested by a male healthcare provider
• to gain good eye contact an effective communication is necessary