Research for Cultural Diversity in the Field of Nursing Essay Example

healthcare and turn to a cultural healer for treatment. It is crucial for healthcare providers to acknowledge and comprehend cultural disparities. Language barriers pose a substantial obstacle in the healthcare sector, particularly in the United States where numerous languages are spoken on a daily basis. The most effective solution to address this issue is by employing a medical interpreter, also referred to as a translator. These medical interpreters are highly skilled experts who adhere to an ethical code akin to other healthcare professionals.

When healthcare providers and patients or their families need to communicate, it is important to ensure cultural compatibility if a translator is used. This can be difficult if an in-person translator is not present. Nevertheless, healthcare facilities offer telephone translation services to help with communication. Each facility has its own protocol for managing these situations. It is crucial to remember that phone translators must also comply with HIPPA regulations.

Family members should not be relied upon to translate medical information as they may lack medical training and may not comprehend the healthcare professional's explanations. Additionally, other facility employees should not interpret for the patient unless they are certified and all other options have been exhausted. In such cases, the nurse must document that every possible measure has been taken to adhere to facility protocol. It is essential for healthcare to continually strive to accommodate patients from diverse cultures, as the lack of cultural sensitivity and competence can lead to misunderstandings between the nurse and the patient, thereby causing stress for both parties. (Success in practical/vocational nursing from student to lead).

According to the 7th edition of Howlet's book (Chapter 16), every nurse is seen as

a leader, regardless of whether they are labeled as someone who seeks power, which is known as the Autocratic style of leadership. This type of leader is ideal for handling emergency situations as they provide instructions to the employees. Another type of leader is the Democratic one, who prefers sharing responsibility with other employees to accomplish tasks.

On the opposite end of the Autocratic spectrum is the Laissez-faire leader, who delegates all responsibilities to other employees. Without leaders present in healthcare facilities, such as nursing homes or hospitals, patient care would lack structure. In summary, cultural competence continues to develop within the healthcare field. Nurses can now effectively communicate with patients who speak different languages by utilizing culturally appropriate translation services, whether in-person or via phone. Overcoming communication barriers is just one way in which nurses and other healthcare providers can deliver quality care.

The nurse should avoid making false assumptions about a patient based on their culture, as not everyone is the same. If unsure about a patient's cultural practices, the nurse should ask. Cultural competence is continually improving.

Reference

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2. HRSA, National Center for Health Workforce Analysis. Sex, Race, and Ethnic Diversity of U.S. Health Occupations (2010-2012).

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• Hull M. Medical language proficiency: a discussion of interprofessional language competencies and potential for patient risk. Int J Nurs Stud. 2016;54:158-172
• Moreno G, Lin EH, Chang E, et al Disparities in the use of internet and telephone medication refills among linguistically diverse patients. J Gen Intern Med.

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doi: 10.12691/ajnr-2-4-1.

Hill, Signe S., and Helen A. Howlett. Success in Practical/Vocational Nursing: from Student to Leader. Elsevier Saunders, 2013.