Cultural Sensitivity in Nursing

Cultural differences manifest in any situation where people from different regions come together. Whether large or small, the points of variation make opportunities for either growth in understanding or divergence in conflict. In the United States, cultural diversity has been expanding for years. The 1990 US Census reported findings that indicated that by the year 2000, minority populations will, counted together, constitute a national majority (Congress of Nursing, 1991). In 2014, as Hispanic and Asian populations are set to take the lead as the predominant US minority, the significance of cultural differences in the workplace will continue to expand. In the field of nursing, patients deserve equal treatment that takes into consideration their values.

My own cultural background carries its own slant with a distinct vantage point. For me, this standpoint is important to recognize as I interact with my patients, especially when conflicts arise. I believe that the responsibility of communication lies with the communicator; therefore, when interacting with my patients, I strive to arrive at a level of dialogue that takes their perspective into account while conversing in a straightforward and unambiguous manner. In my search for a greater understanding of my own values, I have benefitted from the input of various communication experts. Don W. Prince and Michael J. Hoppe (2000) propose a five-point guideline for more clearly understanding what drives cultural perspectives (p. 6). First, I consider whether I truly understand my own values and conditioning. As stated above, I take it upon myself to approach interpersonal communication with recognition of fundamental differences in perspective. In terms of different and contrasting viewpoints, I look inwardly to confirm that I view these ideas as parallel rather than inferior. Always looking for ways that I might stereotype others, I consider it my responsibility to keep my attitude in check in the workplace. In implementing these soft communication skills, I continuously look for opportunities where I can make my communication more effective (p. 6). As a result, my patients benefit from peace of mind and a greater appreciation for my work.

In my work on a women's unit at a hospital, my coworkers vary in perspective. They range from older nurses nearing the age of retirement with a wide breadth of experience to share with others to young nurses just out of school with a great amount of theoretical book knowledge awaiting the rigors of understanding through practice. In spite of professional standards in the workplace, I cannot assume that every nurse has taken the same pains to care for patients where they are and as they are. Some may come from cultural positions differing from my own. In spite of these differences, I realize that I have the power to take the responsibility to communicate a positive example of cultural sensitivity around my co-workers through thoughtful questions, careful review of procedures, and above all, a focus on listening to others. In leadership by example, I can set a powerful precedent in my work environment for respect.

The women I am charged to care for come from all walks of life including African-American, Hispanic, Caucasian, and Vietnamese backgrounds; as a staff nurse at a city hospital, I am challenged with the opportunity to challenge the status quo in a positive and meaningful way to create a thinking heaven. I'm in charge of ethical discharge planning for these populations. When dealing with gynecological surgery, cancer, and high-risk pregnancy, we take care to communicate in ways that respect each patient's point of view and need for professional disclosure and privacy. Indeed, the Congress of Nursing points out that "other cultures can provide . . . a range of alternatives in services, delivery systems, conceptualization of illness, and treatment modalities" (1991). A patient's comfort level within the American melting pot can vary greatly according to their background. As each culture brings its own expectation of proper treatment solutions, it is important to take an inclusive stance continuously aware of patient needs.

References

Cultural Diversity in Nursing Practice, Congress of Nursing. (1991, October 22). Cultural diversity in nursing practice. Nursing World. Retrieved February 7, 2014, from http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/Policy-Advocacy/Positions-and-Resolutions/ANAPositionStatements/Position-Statements-Alphabetically/prtetcldv14444.html

Prince, D. W., & Hoppe, M. H. (2000). Communicating across cultures. Greensboro, N.C.: Center for Creative Leadership.