When patients arrive at any health care setting, they come with a specific cultural background. The health care professionals that care for these patients also possess their own, different cultural background, which may be similar to or extremely divergent from that of the patient. When nurses communicate with and care for a patient, it is important for them to be aware of and have respect for the patient’s culture and beliefs, regardless of whether or not they happen to agree. As a nurse, one holds the responsibility of educating the patient on a matter and, then, allowing the patient to make informed decisions, maintaining the patient’s autonomy. As long as the patient has the information necessary to make an informed decision on the matter,
…show more content…
The more knowledge nurses have about different cultures and religions they may encounter in their everyday work, the better care they can provide to their patients. It is still important to remember, though, that culture is extremely individual, and no matter how much education one has, a specific patient may come with an alternate perspective. This education, though, can provide valuable insights on treating patients of different races, ethnicities, genders, religions, socioeconomic statuses, or even sexual orientations, as all these factors work together to develop an individual’s …show more content…
“Healthy People 2020 identified LGBT cultural competence training as an integral part of all medical and nursing school curricula and continuing education for those already in the workforce.” A national movement has identified LGBT patients as a population at risk, and is looking to teach medical professionals how to ensure better care is provided for them. As some of the positive benefits that this education will provide, Healthy People 2020 emphasizes “Reductions in disease transmission and progression, increased mental and physical well-being, reduced health care costs, and increased longevity” It is not enough for only new health care providers to receive this education, but nurses and other professionals who are already in practice should learn as
The more knowledge nurses have about different cultures and religions they may encounter in their everyday work, the better care they can provide to their patients. It is still important to remember, though, that culture is extremely individual, and no matter how much education one has, a specific patient may come with an alternate perspective. This education, though, can provide valuable insights on treating patients of different races, ethnicities, genders, religions, socioeconomic statuses, or even sexual orientations, as all these factors work together to develop an individual’s …show more content…
“Healthy People 2020 identified LGBT cultural competence training as an integral part of all medical and nursing school curricula and continuing education for those already in the workforce.” A national movement has identified LGBT patients as a population at risk, and is looking to teach medical professionals how to ensure better care is provided for them. As some of the positive benefits that this education will provide, Healthy People 2020 emphasizes “Reductions in disease transmission and progression, increased mental and physical well-being, reduced health care costs, and increased longevity” It is not enough for only new health care providers to receive this education, but nurses and other professionals who are already in practice should learn as