Nursing Implications and Interventions
A generalized nursing diagnosis for Latino mothers is the need for further patient education related to the importance of prenatal appointments and checkups as evidenced by a history of poor attendance by Latina mothers and families. When working with Latino families it is vital to explain the worth of prenatal appointments and checkups in the process of pregnancy and labor. As present-oriented people, the value of prevention might not seem relevant; if all seems to be going well in the moment, why go to the doctor’s office? Poma (1987) writes, “the value of these visits need to be repeatedly emphasized, otherwise many Hispanic women will stop the visits because they are feeling fine and they are used …show more content…
Folk traditions and remedies could seem foolish and difficult to support especially if one isn’t familiar with them. However, as nurses, we can use a patient’s beliefs and practices to enhance the nurse-patient relationship. Poma (1987) concludes, “Healthcare workers should not be concerned about allowing patients to follow traditional beliefs. Awareness and support are important, as they allow for more open communication. Unless the medication to be used is dangerous, or the folk therapy postpones significantly the use of other proven, effective therapeutic measures, the physician should not worry” (p. 935). A specific step that the nurse needs to take in order to be able to support a patient’s traditional practices and beliefs is research. That knowledge and support could be as simple as hanging the red ribbon that “wards off the evil eye,” or doing what they can to fulfill the mother’s cravings or “antojos.” Recognizing and acknowledging a patient’s beliefs, rituals, and practices when it comes to pregnancy enables nurses and physicians to build good rapport with their patients and provide the best care