HEALTH
-Leininger’s cultural care theory relates to the nursing metaparadigm concept of health by bringing to light that health and illness are viewed uniquely by varying cultures and are difficult to define (Friberg & Creasia, 2016).
-An individual’s cultural background and their understanding of health and healthcare are inseparable and should be taken into account when being treated (Friberg & Creasia, 2016).
-Healthcare providers should not project their personal beliefs onto the patient.
Speaking notes Understanding a patient may have specific and perhaps rigid cultural beliefs regarding their own health can be key to providing the best individual care. By understanding various culture differences, the nurse can empower the patient by allowing them to promote their own health while maintaining their cultural dignity. By performing a self- evaluation, the nurse decreases the potential to project their own belief structure onto the patient. Cultures can vary widely regarding health and illness, maintaining an open line of communication with patients is imperative.
Specific nursing improvement Jehovah’s witness members believe it is a sin to receive blood and blood products. Often times this can lead to an ethical healthcare dilemma (Effa-Heap, 2013). The refusal of any medical intervention is a patient’s right. The nurse plays a key role in advocating for the patient’s cultural beliefs. The patient should be made aware of any alternatives available, such as volume expanders and depending on the patient’s cultural and religious view of albumin. The nurse who is culturally competent is in distinct position to understand the Jehovah’s witness cultural beliefs and to accept those beliefs based on the religious and cultural views of health.
Conclusion
Leinenger’s cultural care theory delivers the understanding that being culturally competent and aware allows for the interaction and cultural understanding needed in today’s culturally diverse society. The nurse who is able to grasp these principles will be more readily able to apply the four tenets of the nursing metaparadigm while caring for individuals as well as groups across a broad spectrum of backgrounds throughout the healthcare field.
References
Effa-Heap, G. (2013). Blood transfusions: Implications of treating Jehovah's witness patient. British Journal of Nursing. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2009.18.3.39047
Friberg, E. E., & Creasia, J. L. (2016). Conceptual Foundations The Bridge to Foundational Nursing. St. Louis: Elsevier, Inc.