Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Unit 11 Developing Cultural Sensitivity
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Objectives Spell and define terms. Name six major cultural groups in the United States. Describe ways the major cultures differ in their family organization, communication, need for personal space, health practices, religion, and traditions.
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Objectives List ways nursing assistants can develop sensitivity about cultures other than their own. List ways the nursing assistant can help patients in practicing rituals appropriate to their cultures.
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Objectives State ways the nursing assistant can demonstrate appreciation of and sensitivity to other cultures.
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Introduction The United States is a nation of people whose ancestors came primarily from other countries. As a health care provider, you are expected to show sensitivity to the individuality and cultural heritage of each patient.
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Race, Ethnicity, and Culture Race –Classification of people according to shared physical characteristics Ethnicity –Special groups within a race as defined by national origin and/or culture
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Race, Ethnicity, and Culture Culture –The way a particular group views the world –Set of traditions that are passed on from generation to generation
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Traditions Customs and practices followed by members of a culture and passed from generation to generation Although you may not observe the same customs or practices –You should respect the traditions of your patients
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Cultural and Religious Garments Members of some groups are required to wear special clothing with a religious significance Some groups require that their members keep various parts of their bodies covered –Such as covering the head during prayer
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Cultural and Religious Garments Respect each patient’s cultural and religious beliefs –Do all you can to help them comply with their cultural and religious clothing requirements
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Rituals Associated with Washing Members of some groups have rituals they must perform involving the body –Washing before prayer –In some cultures, washing is required at certain times of the day or before and after specified activities
Copyright © 2008 Delmar Learning. All rights reserved. Rituals Associated with Washing Assist your patient by setting up supplies Respect his or her religious and cultural washing rituals