Module 3 Diversity Discussion on Cultural Competency

Module 3 Diversity Discussion on Cultural Competency 

Hello Class,

Cultural assessment in nursing can be defined as the process by which nurses assesses an individual’s cultural needs (Andrews and Boyle, 2015). Through a systematic process, a cultural diversity assessment can be explained as the process by which nurses gathers relevant information, interprets the data, and identifies and implements intervention for population from different backgrounds. 

A comprehensive cultural assessment requires a nurse to consult, engage, train, employ, research and conduct field surveys. During a comprehensive cultural assessment, the health professional should view all cultures from the context into which they are developed.  While dealing with a patient, it is important to promote and maintain health by considering the cultural differences from this aspect. In culturally diverse population, competency is promoted by addressing cultural issues before maintenance and promotion programs. In this principle, I believe one should collect contextual or environmental data. Anticipatory planning is the first phase where a nurse should include community leaders who should be part of the targeted population to boost acceptance of the program. During the assessment, it is important that the health professionals is sensitive to the cultural beliefs, both for the individuals and the community. 

Cultural competences can be facilitated by communication skills. In addition to professional competency, health professionals require to follow mutual communication and behavior of healthcare patients and workers. One of the communication skills is clarity where the management should clarify the roles, responsibilities and expectations of patients and clinicians. Communication sensitivity is significant as it increases the awareness of health professionals as well as understanding the best practice for culturally diverse patients. Harmonized goals are an effective skill where the health professionals and the patients have a common understanding of the care plan (Paget et al, 2011). A supportive environment is a form of communication skill where nurses should nurture and secure a decision climate. Therefore, there is need for cultural competency in care delivery. 

Reference

Andrews, M. M., & Boyle, J. S. (2015). Transcultural concepts in nursing care (Seventh edition.). Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer/LWW.

Paget, L., Han, P., Nedza, S., Kurtz, P., Racine, E., Russell, S., & Von Kohorn, I. (2011). Patient-clinician communication: Basic principles and expectations. Washington, DC: IOM Working Group Report, Institute of Medicine