Question

SCENARIO: aged care

A young Indigenous man in a wheelchair has been cared for by his extended family in his remote community (he has a diagnosis of pre-Huntington’s chorea) but now he needs 24 hour care. The family live in the same city but not close to the residential aged care facility and his admission is as a last resort.

you have been assigned as his nurse and have just explained the visiting arrangements. You notice that his sister becomes visibly distressed.

a) How will you continue the conversation with the family?

b)What is your evaluation of what is needed to provide a culturally safe service for the young man and his family?

Answer 1

The nature of a crisis can be personal and subjective and its severity can range from mild to life-threatening

TIPS TO TALK WITH DISTRESSED PERSON

1 TALK IN PRIVATE-which help to give undivided attention to the person

2 listen carefully and with sensitivity-listen in an open -minded and nonjudgmental way

3 be honest and direct,but nonjudgemental

4 distress often comes from conflicting feelings or demands

help them relieve all their concerns .encourage them to ventilate their feelings regarding health care,so we can continue conversation

Eliminating indigenous and ethnic health inequalities requires addressing the determinants of health inequalities which includes institutional racism,and ensuring a health system that delivers appropriate and equitable care.

STRATEGIES THAT ENHANCE THE ABILITY TO BE CULTURALLY SAFE INCLUDE

- Reflecting on one's own culture,attitudes and beliefs about ' others'

-clear ,value free,open and respectfull communication

- develop trust

- recognising and avoiding stereotypical barriers

- being prepared to engage with others in a two -way dialogue where knowledge is shared

- understanding the influence of cultural shock