Strategies Useful in Communicating with Japanese American family

Caring for American Eskimo, Japanese, & Russian

1. List factors that predispose Eskimos to risk as a result of the consumption of large quantities of sugar.
2. Analyze different strategies useful in communicating with the Japanese American family.
3. When caring for a Russian American client, for the most part, at what distance would a Russian patient feel at most ease?

Submission Instructions:

• Your initial post should be at least 500 words, formatted, and cited in current APA style with support from at least 2 academic sources.

 

A. Health Risks for American Eskimos Due to High Sugar Consumption

American Eskimos (Inuit populations) have traditionally consumed a diet high in protein and fats with minimal carbohydrates. This dietary history influences their genetic makeup and metabolic processes. A sudden shift to diets high in sugar, common with the adoption of Westernized food habits, predisposes them to several health risks. Here are a few key factors:

1. Genetic Disposition: Historically, Inuit diets lacked agriculturally based foods; hence, their bodies evolved to efficiently process proteins and fats but not carbohydrates. High sugar intake can lead to a higher incidence of type 2 diabetes among this population compared to those whose ancestors have a longer history of carbohydrate consumption.
2. Metabolic Impact: A diet high in simple sugars can lead to obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes, diseases less common in populations consuming traditional Inuit diets.
3. Dental Health: American Eskimos have higher rates of dental caries (tooth decay) when consuming carbohydrate-rich diets, which is a shift from their traditional diet that included minimal sugars.

Academic Sources:

• Research detailing genetic adaptations to diet in Arctic populations (e.g., studies on the metabolism of specific populations).
• Epidemiological studies on the incidence of diabetes and obesity in indigenous populations after dietary changes.

B. Communicating with Japanese American Families

Communication with Japanese American families requires cultural sensitivity and awareness of certain nuances:

1. Respect for Hierarchy: Recognizing and respecting the hierarchical structure within the family is crucial. It’s often effective to acknowledge the eldest family member or the head of the household first in discussions.
2. Indirect Communication: Japanese culture often values indirect communication, so it’s important to be attentive to non-verbal cues and what might not be said openly. Avoiding confrontation and offering polite suggestions instead of direct demands can facilitate better communication.
3. Language Considerations: While many Japanese Americans may be fluent in English, some older individuals may be more comfortable communicating in Japanese. Offering translation services can show respect and improve understanding.

Academic Sources:

• Studies on cross-cultural communication barriers and facilitators in healthcare settings.
• Research on family dynamics and communication styles in Japanese American families.

C. Personal Space Preferences in Russian American Patients

Personal space preferences can vary widely, but generally, Russian culture tolerates closer interpersonal distances than some Western cultures. When caring for a Russian American client:

• Comfortable Distance: Generally, a distance of about 1.5 to 2 feet during medical consultations can be appropriate. This allows for personal interaction without invading what might be considered personal space in Russian culture.
• Context of Interaction: The appropriate distance might vary depending on the context and the individual’s comfort level. Observing the patient’s cues and asking for their preference can also guide appropriate distancing.

Academic Sources:

• Studies on cultural differences in personal space preferences.
• Research on non-verbal communication practices in different cultures.

Conclusion

When addressing these diverse cultural backgrounds in healthcare, understanding and integrating cultural competencies is essential to provide effective, respectful, and personalized care. Academic sources that focus on genetic research, cross-cultural communication, and cultural studies in healthcare can provide a solid basis for these discussions.