Fundamentals of Nursing Q 440
Which activity would not be expected by the nurse to meet the cultural needs of the client?
A. Promote and support attitudes, behaviors, knowledge, and skills to respectfully meet the client’s cultural needs despite the nurse’s own beliefs and practices.
B. Ensure that the interpreter understands not only the language of the client but feelings and attitudes behind cultural practices to make sure an ethical balance can be achieved.
C. Develop structure and process for meeting cultural needs on a regular basis and means to avoid overlooking these needs with clients.
D. Expect the family to keep an interpreter present at all times to assist in meeting the communication needs all day and night while hospitalized.
Correct Answer: D. Expect the family to keep an interpreter present at all times to assist in meeting the communication needs all day and night while hospitalized
It is not the family’s responsibility to assist in the communication process. Many families will leave someone to help at times, but it is the hospital’s legal obligation to find an interpreter for continued understanding by the client to make sure the client is fully informed and comprehends in his or her primary language.
Option A: When caring for a patient from a culture different from the nurse’s own, she needs to be aware of and respect his cultural preferences and beliefs; otherwise, he may consider the nurse insensitive and indifferent, possibly even incompetent. But beware of assuming that all members of any one culture act and behave in the same way; in other words, don’t stereotype people.
Option B: Establishing an environment where cultural differences are respected begins with effective communication. This occurs not just from speaking the same language, but also through body language and other cues, such as voice, tone, and loudness. The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) requires facilities to have interpreters available, so every facility should make a list available.
Option C: Thinking about one’s beliefs and recognizing one’s own cultural bias and worldview will help understand differences and resolve cultural and ethical conflicts one may face. But while caring for this patient, promote open dialogue and work with him, his family, and health care providers to reach a culturally appropriate solution. For example, a patient who refuses a routine blood transfusion might accept an autologous one.