Essay On Cultural Safety

When working in the healthcare sector and dealing with patients, it is essential to understand the concept of cultural safety. Cultural safety was first introduced to primarily improve the health of Maori in Aotearoa and to ensure healthcare providers upheld the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi. Over time the meaning of cultural safety has developed to include the beliefs and various other aspects that make up a person. Bryson discusses three main concepts that are essential to understand in order to become a culturally competent healthcare worker.

In Bryson’s article she discusses her journey towards understanding cultural safety and the implications it has on patients when working in the healthcare environment. As Bryson gained more experience caring for patients, she realised the importance of becoming self-aware and building rapport connections with patients by respecting their individual cultural identity. As Bryson’s nursing knowledge grew, she discovered the link between cultural safety and the power it …show more content…
This is important to identify because when caring for patients it is easy to unconsciously judge and stereotype patients. Due to judgement by healthcare providers, the rapport and mutual respect may not develop with the patient. Holding personal judgements as a healthcare provider against a patient can have a negative impact on patient healthcare and overall well-being. As reflected in Bryson’s article the patient’s demeanour changes when the nurse’s cares for the patient in a culturally safe manner. Everyone’s cultural identity is different, and the healthcare needs will vary with each patient. As Bryson realised, in order for a nurse to care for patients in a culturally safe manner it is vital to remain self-aware, to ensure a therapeutic relationship with patients, without letting one’s own influence and judgements affect their healthcare