Cultural Diversity

Cultural diversity is a tricky subject to completely comprehend. It has so many aspects, so many interpretations, and can evoke positive and negative feelings. These feelings are all based on personal experience. I had hoped to learn more of a definition of what cultural diversity actually is, what aspects I need to be aware of, and why. It's not always easy to understand which aspects of other cultures we should know and/or be sensitive to.

I learned that I'm not the only one who doesn't understand some cultures, and how to be sensitive to them. It is apparent that others especially current student and newly graduated nurses have difficulty understanding and meeting the cultural needs of their patients. Some of the most common issues are that of language barriers, food choices, and gender issues (generally referring to requesting the care of a certain gender over another).

Having at least a basic understanding of the cultures I will likely encounter is important. I will make a conscious effort to learn about at least three different cultures around me, and understand some of their practices. This way I will be able to provide a higher level of culturally competent care to my patients.

I believe that cultural diversity is everywhere, and there is virtually no way to be completely ignorant of it. We are surrounded by people from all over the world, who all think and act a little different. It is nearly impossible to know every culture, their beliefs, and practices, but it is not impossible to be sensitive to and respect other cultures.