Polynesian Culture

Before researching this culture, I was hoping to find any specific cultural differences in perception of healthcare, aspects of tradition or ritual that differ from other cultures discussed so far, or differences in perception of family, life, or death.

I learned that Polynesian culture is overall similar in many ways to Western cultures. There is, however, a push to preserve native and traditional languages with the incorporation of immersion programs. There are still many traditions and rituals that have been maintained throughout generations. Some of these include the making of woven rugs, cutting of hair to make a wig for a brand new niece or nephew, and the production of clothing using bark. Some of these traditions are reserved for special occasions and celebrations, but are still part of the culture. Family units are a lot more loosely knit than those of Western cultures. The family unit consists of multiple extended family members and grandparents. And in times of illness, the family comes together to care for the ill member.

Understanding how the family unit functions is one of the most important ways to utilize this information into nursing practice. I have cared for a few patients from this culture, and much of their care comes from family members. The ill may be fed, bathed, and essentially become dependent on the care of family during the time of illness. This is not uncommon.

I like learning about this culture, and some of their cultural practices that differ from those around me. It widens my knowledge, and helps me to understand why people do what they do, especially in times of illness or hospitalization. I like the closeness of extended family and acceptance of differences that seems to be a common trend in that culture.

Asian Culture

I expected to learn more about different Asian cultures, and what differs them from each other. I also expected to learn a little bit about the perception of healthcare the Asian culture has and how it differs from the culture in the U.S.

I learned that Asian cultures most often use alternative methods of medicine and healing. A large focus on balancing chi and off-setting a "hot" or "cold" ailment is important. The Asian culture is more likely to use teas, oils, and ancestral rituals to bring wellness and health to the family. I learned that especially in the Chinese culture great importance is placed on ancestral glory, and that individuals are to bring honor to their family and ancestors to thank them for the gift of life. I learned that Asians are more likely to present a stoic behavior and not show a lot of expression in the face of trials and pain.

I will use this information in my nursing career to understand that patients I have that are from an Asian culture may be less likely to tell me when they are in pain, are likely to use fewer medications and may feel more comfortable using an alternative method of healing. I will respect these wishes and allow them to utilize them as much as possible, and do my best to explain the differences in western medicine and how it works.

I have always had a bit of a fascination with the Asian culture. I know the stereotypes, and some of them seem to be mostly true, while others are not. But I like the focus on the family, education, and living a life of honor. Those are all very good qualities to have.

Native American Culture

I expected to learn about some of the cultural aspects that Native American's believe in, some of their health practices, and what sets their culture apart from others,

I learned that Native American's largely believe in a Great Spirit, Mother Earth, Father Sky, and other spiritual beings. This culture believes that everything is interconnected, and that every resource should be appreciated and used to its fullest without waste. I learned that identifying spiritual beliefs, weaknesses, and misunderstandings is a main approach to mental illness. I learned that currently the Native American culture is lacking in healthcare resources, have higher rates of disease, and are separate from other citizens in the way their healthcare is managed. This was frustrating to learn, and something that should be better managed. These people deserve just as much access and knowledge of healthcare issues as the rest of the citizens.

I will use this information to understand the perceptions this culture has on healthcare. I can only imagine that healthcare as a whole is a sensitive subject, and one that may bring great debate. I will use this information to understand that any patients I may have that come from a Native American heritage may have higher rates of disease, poorly managed disease, or specific spiritual beliefs of healing.

I have an interest in the cultural beliefs of Native Americans. I really like the spirituality they believe in and the beliefs they carry regarding utilizing resources. I think this is a culture with rich history that deserves attention, and a culture that is perhaps often forgotten, and lacking in resources for healthcare.

Deaf Culture

I expected to learn some of the cultural norms that surround the deaf culture, such as language, social norms, and learn about any differences in perception of culture, health care, and societal status.

I learned that other than language, and eye contact, there are few differences among deaf individuals. Eye contact is important in ensuring contact has been made, and both parties are understanding one another. They are likely to follow along with the cultural norms of those they are surrounded by. The official language in English speaking countries is American Sign Language (ASL). This is widely utilized, along with lip reading. Many deaf individuals gradually incorporate the skill of lip reading into their language. This is one of the best ways to understand and communicate with others, especially those who do not know ASL. There are also schools and religious houses designed for the deaf. These foster a community for deaf individuals to come together, and share commonalities. A deaf individual does not have to attend a specific institution in order to get an education or religious experience. Schools around the nation have specific disability services for those who need translation, help writing notes, or transportation.

I have cared for a couple of patients so far that are deaf. Most of them were able to communicate with me, but required eye contact in order to facilitate understanding. The other person required an ASL translator. It is important to respect individuals with different needs. I will continue to utilize translation services, and do my best to allow individuals to express their feelings in their own language.

I have had some contact with and known a few individuals who are deaf. I do occasionally feel bad when I can't communicate with them because I don't know ASL. I've had to catch myself and become more aware of my own behavior in the past because I've spoken louder and slower thinking that would help. Now I will usually ask if I need to speak louder, or clarify if the person I'm communicating with doesn't understand me. I would like to learn the language. It seems very interesting, and could be incredibly helpful in nursing.

Hispanic/Latin Culture

Before researching this culture, I was hoping to learn about what makes the Hispanic culture different than other cultures. I was also hoping to learn about what makes up the Hispanic culture. I've always found some confusion in the term, and wondered if all Latin/Spanish country cultures are lumped into this term, or if there are differing terms for each. It seems to be an all encompassing term for every Spanish speaking country cultural lifestyle.

I learned that each individual identifies themselves differently. Many of the Hispanic culture identify themselves as "white" and consider their country of origin their heritage rather than their race. I also learned that there are specific holidays that each country celebrates, and some that are a commonality among different Hispanic cultures. I learned more of a definition of the difference between Latin and Hispanic. Latin refers to more of a region of people, whereas Hispanic refers to a common language population. The terms also carry a certain emotional connotation to those categorized in each, and each have the potential to offend.

I will utilize this information in my nursing practice to be more sensitive to those from other cultures, Hispanic, Latin or otherwise. I will do my best not to stereotype, and categorize someone based on where they are from. I will also allow for cultural and religious practices of those from Hispanic cultures to perform the practices they see fit to allow for holistic healing.

I do not understand all of the cultural beliefs and practices of this specific culture, but I can respect them for what others believe they are or have the capacity to do. I don't have to understand fully to know that a cultural practice is important to someone and they should be allowed to practice what they feel will help them. This can get tricky when such cultural practices become dangerous to individuals and others. But my basic rule of thumb, is to allow cultural practices as long as individuals and others are not in harm.

Judaism

I expected to learn a few aspects about the culture of Judaism. I wanted to know what kind of practices they perform, how they perceive medical care, and other aspects that differ them from other religions.

I learned that Judaism may be considered both a religion and a nation. Up until the 19th century, most of the Jewish culture lived in the same region, shared the Hebrew language, and were self-governed. Now they are spread throughout the world, take on many different cultural practices based on the surrounding cultures, and follow separate governments. They still hold true the basic beliefs of the Torah, and speak in Hebrew with each other, but cultures may look very different for each region.

I will use this information in my career to understand the perception of healthcare. I believe that in this area they may consider healthcare highly, and be more likely to seek healthcare based on the culture surrounding. I will also use this information to respect cultural beliefs, preferences and laws in food preparation, and strive to meet the needs of each individual I care for.

As for personal feelings toward this religion, I don't have any particularly positive or negative feelings toward it. I don't know many people personally who practice the religion, but I do know the history, and suffering this population has endured. I have empathy for that, and I do not pass judgment for individual's religious choices.

Muslim Culture

I expected to learn about the Muslim culture, what separates their beliefs from other religious cultures, and some of the medicinal practices they believe in and perform. It's always nice to know the preferences of certain cultures.

I learned that the Muslim culture has many beliefs that are different from the culture I am surrounded by. I learned that family hierarchy and caring for one's parents is held in incredibly high regard. I also learned that female genital mutilation is still a fairly common practice, and is believed to bring complete fidelity of a woman to her husband. The women in the culture wear specific clothing to hide their beauty from the world, and save it only for their husbands. I learned that Muslim's tend to believe similar ideas regarding their health and accept healthcare when they have needs. This changes in reference to mental health, which is not considered a true illness, but rather a form of sin that needs religious correction.

I will take these aspects and implement them into my nursing career. Understanding a Muslim woman's religious duty, and preference to cover herself, could make a huge difference in care that I give. Understanding the need to care for one's parents and live to serve them would help me to understand children's role in their parent's care, or decision making.

This culture is interesting to read about. I have not come in contact with members of this culture, but there is great potential, so understanding some of the important aspects of their culture is important. I don't agree with female genital mutilation, and do not understand the concept behind it. I also don't understand the relationship with the parents, and why caring for them is held in such high regard. My lack of understanding, however, does not mean that I cannot be empathetic, or take time to understand those I care for, and their specific preferences.