Fundamentals of Nursing Q 338
When action is taken on one’s prejudices:
A. Discrimination occurs.
B. Sufficient comparative knowledge of diverse groups is obtained.
C. Delivery of culturally congruent care is ensured.
D. People think/know you are a dumbass for being prejudiced.
Correct Answer: A. Discrimination occurs.
Discrimination is defined as a showing of partiality or prejudice in treatment; action or policies directed against the welfare of minority groups. Discrimination in the health sector is disturbing as it violates the basic principles articulated by care providers. Discrimination can be direct or indirect. Given the impact of unintentional discrimination based upon attitudes and stereotyping, all nurses must examine their biases and prejudices for indications of discriminatory actions.
Option B: People in socially disadvantaged groups face a myriad of challenges to their health. Discrimination, based on group status such as gender, immigration generation, race/ethnicity, or religion, are a well-documented health challenge. Nurses must seek out and support nursing practice environments that embrace inclusive strategies and promote civility and mutual respect regarding patients, coworkers, and members of the community.
Option C: Individuals who have experienced discrimination in the past may be more reluctant to seek health care, as they may perceive it as a setting of increased risk for discrimination (i.e., refusal of service or lower quality of care). This may be especially true for those who have experienced discrimination within the health care setting itself. Nurses must encourage all health care agencies to adopt and aggressively maintain policies, procedures, and practices that embrace inclusiveness, promote civility and mutual respect, contain methods for reporting violations, and require interventions to avoid recurrence.
Option D: Nurses must engage in a period of self-reflection regarding their personal and professional values regarding civility, mutual respect, and inclusiveness, and resolve any potential conflicts in ways that ensure patient safety and promote the best interests of the patient (ANA, 2015).