7. Culturally safe communication as healthcare professionals

Question 1

What was one interesting thing you learnt from the Week 7 podcasts?

Answer 1

The question about the appropriateness of eye contact in interaction was very interesting in discussion during the podcast. Firstly, in practice, it is encouraged and talked openly about the importance of eye contact in interaction in Western culture and medicine principles.
However, a lack of understanding about First Nation’s culture and perhaps the disrespectful misinterpretations of eye contact may threaten patient interactions and the formation of trust.

Question 2

What are the culturally safe communication strategies you can adopt?

Answer 2

• avoid making eye contact
• be prepared for the language barriers, and avoid using medical jargons
• manage meeting times according to ATS clients’ needs (they may have other commitments)
• use single/open questions that yield more comprehensive information (a closed question containing multiple components)
• develop an understanding of ‘kinship’ and its impacts on ATS customs
• shows genuine concerns about ATS clients’ health/needs and willingness to help

Question 3

Do you have any personal experiences that resonate with what was shared by the specialists?

Answer 3

Across a few clinical placements, I have found that individuals from different backgrounds. It makes the world of difference to be able to say ‘hello’ or ‘goodbye’ in their language which acts as an ice-breaker.