Briefly introduce a person you have recently cared for in your nursing practice. (Be sure not to include any identifying information that would be protected by HIPAA!) Discuss the person’s view of the cause of their health condition, the person’s health literacy, and the person’s identity on the continuum of privilege-disadvantage (Table 4 in the Lor article on p. 361). What was (or would be) your approach to care for him/her in a culturally competent way?
In my recent nursing practice, I had the opportunity to care for a patient who presented with a chronic respiratory condition. The individual, let’s call them Alex, held a belief that their health condition was primarily caused by exposure to environmental pollutants. Alex expressed concerns about air quality in their neighborhood, citing industrial factories and heavy traffic as contributing factors to their respiratory issues. This perception of the cause of their health condition aligned with their personal experiences and observations.
In terms of health literacy, Alex exhibited a moderate level of understanding about their respiratory condition. They were familiar with the symptoms and had some knowledge about managing their condition through prescribed medications and lifestyle modifications. However, they expressed a desire to learn more about potential triggers and preventive measures.
Regarding their position on the privilege-disadvantage continuum, Alex fell within the category of disadvantage. They mentioned financial constraints that limited their access to healthcare resources, including specialist consultations and alternative treatment options. Additionally, they expressed concerns about the affordability of medications and the lack of nearby healthcare facilities, exacerbating their disadvantage.
To provide culturally competent care for Alex, I would adopt several approaches:
- Active Listening: I would prioritize actively listening to Alex’s concerns, experiences, and beliefs about their health condition. By understanding their perspective, I can validate their experiences and develop a trusting relationship.
- Education and Empowerment: Recognizing Alex’s desire to learn more about their condition, I would provide tailored education materials, both written and verbal, to improve their health literacy. This would include information about triggers, preventive measures, and available community resources.
- Collaborative Decision-Making: I would involve Alex in shared decision-making processes, considering their preferences and limitations. By involving them in their care plan, I can empower them to take an active role in managing their health condition.
- Advocacy: Given Alex’s financial constraints and limited access to healthcare resources, I would advocate for them by exploring potential assistance programs, discounted medication options, or connecting them with community resources that provide support for individuals in similar situations.
- Cultural Sensitivity: I would approach Alex’s care with cultural sensitivity, respecting their individual beliefs and values. By acknowledging and incorporating their cultural background into the care plan, I can ensure a more holistic approach to their well-being.
By employing these approaches, I aim to provide Alex with culturally competent care that respects their beliefs, values, and circumstances while empowering them to actively participate in their own healthcare journey.