Cultural Diversity Flashcards
In what ways are people different and similar in society?
📌 1️⃣ Age
Differences: Varying life experiences, physical abilities, and perspectives.
Similarities: Everyone ages and experiences life transitions (childhood, adulthood, aging).
📌 2️⃣ Gender & Sexual Orientation
Differences: Gender roles, identities, and sexual orientations shape personal experiences.
Similarities: Everyone desires love, respect, and acceptance in relationships.
📌 3️⃣ Educational Level
Differences: Levels of formal education influence career paths, knowledge, and literacy.
Similarities: Everyone has the ability to learn and grow in different ways.
📌 4️⃣ Language
Differences: People speak different languages and dialects, influencing communication styles.
Similarities: All languages serve as tools for expressing emotions, thoughts, and connections.
📌 5️⃣ Occupation
Differences: Job roles and industries shape income, lifestyle, and status.
Similarities: Everyone contributes skills and work to society in some form.
📌 6️⃣ Residence (Rural, Urban, Suburban)
Differences: Access to resources, cost of living, and lifestyle preferences vary.
Similarities: People in all locations seek safety, community, and belonging.
📌 7️⃣ Socioeconomic Status
Differences: Wealth disparities affect access to healthcare, education, and opportunities.
Similarities: Everyone faces financial challenges at some point and aspires for stability.
📌 8️⃣ Religion
Differences: Beliefs, traditions, and practices vary across faiths.
Similarities: Most religions emphasize love, peace, morality, and purpose.
📌 9️⃣ Race & Ethnicity
Differences: Cultural backgrounds and racial identities shape experiences.
Similarities: All humans share the same basic needs for survival, love, and community.
📌 🔟 Family Structure
Differences: Some families are nuclear, extended, single-parent, or blended.
Similarities: Families provide support, love, and guidance regardless of structure.
📌 1️⃣1️⃣ Rituals
Differences: Varying traditions for birth, marriage, death, and celebrations.
Similarities: Rituals help mark important life events in every culture.
📌 1️⃣2️⃣ Nationality
Differences: Citizenship and cultural identity shape laws, customs, and patriotism.
Similarities: Every nation values community, history, and pride in its identity.
📌 1️⃣3️⃣ Disability
Differences: Some individuals experience physical, mental, or developmental disabilities.
Similarities: Everyone has unique strengths and challenges to navigate.
What is culture, and how does it influence individuals and healthcare?
📌 Definition of Culture
A shared system of beliefs, values, and behavioral expectations that provides social structure.
📌 Key Aspects of Culture
✅ Outlines Acceptable Behavior
Defines social norms, traditions, and customs that guide interactions.
✅ Example: In some cultures, direct eye contact is seen as respect, while in others, it may be considered disrespectful.
✅ Learned Through Formal & Informal Experiences
Culture is passed down through generations via family, education, and society.
✅ Example: Learning religious practices from parents or acquiring workplace etiquette in professional settings.
✅ Evolves Over Time, But Core Values Remain
Cultures adapt to modern changes while preserving historical traditions.
✅ Example: Traditional foods and celebrations remain, but communication styles evolve (e.g., social media replacing handwritten letters).
✅ Influences Individual Behavior
Shapes how people think, interact, and make decisions, including healthcare choices.
✅ Example: Some cultures prioritize holistic healing practices over Western medicine.
📌 Cultural Respect in Healthcare
✅ Providing respectful care that is sensitive to a person’s cultural and health beliefs.
✅ Example: Understanding dietary restrictions (Halal, Kosher) and respecting religious practices during medical treatment.
What is a subculture, and how does it relate to dominant and minority groups?
📌 A subculture is a group of individuals who belong to a larger cultural group but have distinct characteristics that set them apart.
✅ Key Features of Subcultures
Members share ethnic, occupational, or physical traits not common to the dominant culture.
Exists within a larger culture but maintains unique values and behaviors.
📌 Examples of Subcultures:
✅ Ethnic Subculture – African American, Latino, Asian American communities within the U.S.
✅ Occupational Subculture – Healthcare workers, military personnel, artists.
✅ Lifestyle Subculture – Vegan communities, LGBTQ+ groups, gaming communities.
📌 Dominant & Minority Groups
✅ Dominant Group – The culture that has the most power and influence in society.
✅ Minority Group – A cultural group with less societal power, often facing discrimination or marginalization.
📌 Cultural Assimilation
The process of adopting the dominant culture’s traits while losing aspects of one’s own cultural identity.
✅ Example: An immigrant stops speaking their native language to fit into the dominant culture.
📌 Culture Shock
The disorientation and stress experienced when adapting to a new or unfamiliar culture.
✅ Example: A student studying abroad struggles with different social norms, food, and language barriers.
What is ethnicity, and how does it develop?
📌 Ethnicity refers to a common heritage shared by a group of people, including social beliefs, traditions, and behavior patterns.
✅ Key Characteristics of Ethnicity
-Rooted in shared ancestry, language, and cultural customs.
-Influences identity, traditions, and social interactions.
-Ethnic groups may share similar religious beliefs, clothing, and customs.
📌 How Ethnicity Develops
✅ Through consistent interaction with family and community members who share the same heritage.
✅ Passed down through generations via traditions, stories, and cultural practices.
📌 Examples of Ethnic Groups
✅ Hispanic/Latino – Common language (Spanish), cultural foods, family-oriented traditions.
✅ Jewish – Shared religious beliefs, customs, and historical experiences.
✅ African American – Cultural traditions, music, and historical influences.
✅ Native American – Tribal affiliations, spiritual beliefs, and ancestral lands.
What is race, and how is it classified in the U.S.?
📌 Race refers to physical characteristics such as skin color, facial features, and hair texture, often used to categorize people into groups.
✅ Key Characteristics of Race
-Based on biological and genetic traits.
-Race classification is used for demographic, social, and legal purposes.
-The U.S. federal government classifies race into five main categories.
📌 U.S. Race Classifications (Federal Standards):
1️⃣ American Indian, Native American, or Alaska Native – Indigenous peoples of North & South America.
2️⃣ Asian – Includes individuals from East Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Indian subcontinent.
3️⃣ Black or African American – People with origins in African racial groups.
4️⃣ White – Individuals with European, Middle Eastern, or North African ancestry.
5️⃣ Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander – Includes Hawaiians, Samoans, and other Pacific Island groups.
What factors inhibit cultural sensitivity, and how do they impact interactions?
📌 1️⃣ Stereotyping
Assuming that all members of a cultural group share the same traits, beliefs, or behaviors.
✅ Example: Believing that all elderly individuals are forgetful or that all women are nurturing.
📌 2️⃣ Cultural Imposition (Forcing Conformity)
Expecting others to adopt the dominant culture’s beliefs and practices.
✅ Example: A doctor pressures a patient to follow Western medicine instead of their traditional healing methods.
📌 3️⃣ Cultural Blindness (Ignoring Differences)
Overlooking or dismissing cultural differences, treating everyone as if they are the same.
✅ Example: A hospital does not acknowledge language barriers and assumes all patients understand English medical instructions.
📌 4️⃣ Cultural Conflict (Feeling Threatened)
Tension or discomfort when encountering different cultural values or practices.
✅ Example: A healthcare provider becomes frustrated when a patient refuses a treatment based on religious beliefs.
How does culture influence healthcare, and why is it important to understand disease prevalence in ethnic groups?
1️⃣ Certain Ethnic Groups Have a Higher Incidence of Specific Diseases
Genetics, diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors contribute to disease prevalence.
2️⃣ Understanding Risk Factors by Ethnicity
✅ African American – Higher risk of hypertension, diabetes, and sickle cell anemia.
✅ Hispanic/Latino – Increased incidence of type 2 diabetes and obesity.
✅ Asian American – Higher risk for liver cancer, lactose intolerance, and tuberculosis.
✅ Native American/Alaska Native – Increased rates of alcoholism, heart disease, and diabetes.
✅ Caucasian (White American) – Higher rates of osteoporosis, cystic fibrosis, and skin cancer.
3️⃣ Cultural Beliefs & Healthcare Decisions
Some cultures prefer traditional medicine over Western treatments.
✅ Example: Asian cultures may use herbal remedies and acupuncture alongside medical care.
Some patients avoid seeking care due to cultural stigma around certain illnesses.
✅ Example: Mental health concerns may be taboo in some communities, preventing treatment.
4️⃣ Importance of Cultural Awareness in Healthcare
Healthcare providers should consider cultural perspectives when recommending treatment.
✅ Example: Respecting dietary restrictions (Halal, Kosher) and modesty preferences during physical exams.
cultural factors influence healthcare
1️⃣ Personal Space
Different cultures have varying comfort levels regarding physical proximity.
✅ Example: In some cultures, close physical contact is a sign of warmth, while in others, it may be seen as invasive or disrespectful.
✅ Impact on Healthcare: A nurse should be aware of patient comfort levels when performing physical exams or offering reassurance through touch.
2️⃣ Food & Nutrition
Dietary habits vary across cultures and can affect nutrition and disease risk.
✅ Example: High-sodium diets in some cultures may increase hypertension risk.
✅ Impact on Healthcare: Healthcare providers should respect dietary restrictions (e.g., Halal, Kosher, vegetarian) and offer culturally appropriate nutrition guidance.
3️⃣ Family Support
Some cultures emphasize family decision-making in healthcare.
✅ Example: In Asian and Hispanic cultures, family members may play a key role in medical decisions.
✅ Impact on Healthcare: Providers should include family in discussions when appropriate, respecting the patient’s cultural values.
4️⃣ Socioeconomic Factors
Income, education, and employment status influence healthcare access and lifestyle choices.
✅ Example: Low-income families may have limited access to healthcare, nutritious food, and medications.
✅ Impact on Healthcare: Providers should be mindful of financial constraints and recommend affordable treatment options or assistance programs.
vulnerable populations
📌 Vulnerable populations are groups at higher risk for poor health outcomes due to social, economic, or medical disadvantages.
📌 Examples of Vulnerable Populations & Their Challenges
✅ Elderly Individuals
Increased risk of chronic diseases, dementia, and mobility issues.
May face social isolation and financial struggles.
✅ Low-Income Individuals & Families
Limited access to healthcare, nutritious food, and stable housing.
Higher rates of preventable diseases due to lack of resources.
✅ Homeless Individuals
Struggle with mental health disorders, substance abuse, and chronic illnesses.
Limited access to consistent medical care and hygiene facilities.
✅ Children & Adolescents
Vulnerable to malnutrition, abuse, and developmental delays.
Depend on guardians for healthcare access.
✅ Individuals with Disabilities
Face barriers in accessing healthcare facilities and employment.
Higher risk of mental health issues due to social stigma.
✅ Immigrants & Refugees
Language barriers and lack of health insurance affect access to care.
May have untreated chronic diseases or mental health trauma.
✅ LGBTQ+ Community
Higher rates of mental health issues, discrimination, and healthcare neglect.
Increased risk of HIV/AIDS and substance use disorders.
📌 Healthcare Solutions for Vulnerable Populations
✅ Provide community outreach programs & free clinics.
✅ Improve access to interpreters & culturally competent care.
✅ Expand insurance & financial assistance programs.
✅ Train healthcare providers on non-discriminatory care practices.
culture influence health and illness
1️⃣ Perception of Health & Illness
Different cultures have varying beliefs about what causes illness and how to treat it.
✅ Example: Some cultures see illness as a spiritual imbalance, while others believe in scientific causes and treatments.
2️⃣ Traditional Healing Practices
Many cultures use traditional medicine, herbal remedies, or spiritual healing alongside modern healthcare.
✅ Example: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) uses acupuncture and herbal remedies.
3️⃣ Attitudes Toward Healthcare & Medical Treatment
Some cultures prioritize natural remedies over pharmaceuticals.
Religious beliefs may affect decisions on blood transfusions, organ donation, or end-of-life care.
✅ Example: Jehovah’s Witnesses may decline blood transfusions for religious reasons.
4️⃣ Communication & Expression of Pain
Some cultures encourage expressing pain openly, while others value stoicism and silence.
✅ Example: In some Asian cultures, patients may underreport pain to avoid “burdening” others.
5️⃣ Family & Community Involvement
Some cultures emphasize family-centered decision-making, while others value individual autonomy.
✅ Example: In Hispanic/Latino cultures, family members are often involved in medical decisions.
6️⃣ Dietary & Lifestyle Factors
Certain cultural diets affect disease risks (e.g., high-sodium diets increasing hypertension risk).
✅ Example: Kosher, Halal, vegetarian dietary restrictions may impact hospital meal options.
7️⃣ Mental Health Perception
Some cultures stigmatize mental health issues, leading to delayed or avoided treatment.
✅ Example: In some African and Asian cultures, depression may be seen as a weakness rather than a medical condition.
Cultural Competency & Healthcare Perspectives
📌 1️⃣ Does everyone in your family have healthcare?
No? It may be due to cost, lack of access, or cultural views on its importance.
📌 2️⃣ What medical conditions are prevalent in your culture?
Some ethnic groups are genetically predisposed to certain conditions.
✅ Example: Diabetes is more common in Hispanic/Latino communities, while hypertension is prevalent in African American populations.
📌 3️⃣ Who makes medical decisions in your culture?
Some cultures prioritize male-dominant decision-making, while others involve women or elders.
✅ Example: In some Middle Eastern cultures, men often make healthcare choices for the family.
📌 4️⃣ How does your family approach doctor visits?
Some cultures only see a doctor in emergencies, while others prioritize preventive care.
✅ Example: Western medicine emphasizes annual checkups, while some Asian cultures seek care only when symptoms arise.
📌 5️⃣ What are the staple foods in your culture’s diet?
Diet varies based on region, religion, and lifestyle.
✅ Example: Rice, beans, tortillas in Latin American cultures; fish and seaweed in Japanese diets.
📌 6️⃣ Are cultural food choices nutritious?
Some traditional foods are rich in nutrients, while others may contribute to health risks.
✅ Example: Mediterranean diets (olive oil, fish, vegetables) are heart-healthy, while high-carb diets may lead to obesity.
📌 7️⃣ Does your culture link food, exercise, and illness?
Some cultures view diet and exercise as key to health, while others may not emphasize this connection.
✅ Example: Western medicine often promotes fitness, while some traditional cultures focus on herbal remedies instead.
📌 8️⃣ What is considered a comfortable annual income?
Income expectations vary based on cost of living and cultural values.
✅ Example: In some cultures, a household may pool income together to support extended family.
📌 9️⃣ Experience with healthcare & prevention awareness?
How do people learn about health and wellness in your culture?
✅ Example: Some rely on family traditions, while others depend on community outreach, schools, or media for health education.
elements of cultural competence in healthcare.
📌 1️⃣ Developing Self-Awareness
Recognize your own cultural background and biases before providing care.
✅ Example: A nurse reflects on how their own beliefs might affect how they interact with patients.
📌 2️⃣ Demonstrating Knowledge & Understanding of a Patient’s Culture
Learn about cultural customs, beliefs, and traditions to provide effective care.
✅ Example: Understanding that some cultures prefer alternative medicine before accepting Western treatments.
📌 3️⃣ Accepting & Respecting Cultural Differences
Respect diverse beliefs, values, and practices without trying to change them.
✅ Example: A provider honors a Muslim patient’s request for a same-gender doctor during an exam.
📌 4️⃣ Not Assuming Healthcare Provider’s Beliefs Match the Patient’s
Avoid imposing personal values on patients.
✅ Example: A nurse does not assume that all patients want aggressive life-saving treatments.
📌 5️⃣ Resisting Judgmental Attitudes
Avoid thinking “different is not as good” when encountering unfamiliar practices.
✅ Example: Instead of questioning traditional healing methods, a provider acknowledges their importance in the patient’s culture.
📌 6️⃣ Being Open & Comfortable with Cultural Encounters
Engage with patients from diverse backgrounds without fear or discomfort.
✅ Example: A doctor learns key phrases in Spanish to better communicate with non-English-speaking patients.
📌 7️⃣ Accepting Responsibility for One’s Own Cultural Competency
Continuously educate yourself to improve cross-cultural care.
✅ Example: A healthcare provider attends cultural sensitivity training to better serve diverse populations.
How can nurses provide culturally respectful care?
📌 1️⃣ Perform a Cultural Assessment
Assess patients’ cultural preferences, practices, and beliefs to provide individualized care.
✅ Example: Asking a patient about dietary restrictions, preferred communication style, and spiritual needs.
📌 2️⃣ Recognize How Culture Has Influenced Your Own Life
Understanding your own cultural background helps in respecting others’ perspectives.
✅ Example: A nurse acknowledges how their personal beliefs might shape their healthcare approach.
📌 3️⃣ PEOPLE MATTER
Every patient deserves respect, empathy, and culturally appropriate care.
✅ Example: A nurse respects a patient’s decision to use traditional healing methods alongside medical treatment.
📌 4️⃣ WORDS MATTER
Use inclusive, nonjudgmental, and patient-centered language.
✅ Example: Instead of saying, “You should do this,” a nurse says, “Would you be open to discussing another option?”
What are key nursing strategies for providing culturally competent care?
📌 1️⃣ Assess Current Knowledge Base
Understand what you know about different cultures and identify gaps in knowledge.
✅ Example: A nurse reviews cultural dietary restrictions before planning a patient’s meal.
📌 2️⃣ Develop Cultural Knowledge
Learn about various cultural beliefs, values, and healthcare practices.
✅ Example: Understanding that some cultures prefer holistic healing over Western medicine.
📌 3️⃣ Develop Cultural Self-Awareness
Reflect on how your own cultural background influences your perception of healthcare.
✅ Example: A nurse acknowledges their personal biases and works to provide unbiased care.
📌 4️⃣ Affirm Client’s Strengths
Recognize and support the patient’s cultural coping mechanisms.
✅ Example: Encouraging a patient’s use of spiritual practices that promote emotional well-being.
📌 5️⃣ Language Assistance
Use interpreters for critical medical information (e.g., consent forms, diagnosis explanations).
✅ Example: A nurse avoids using family members as interpreters when discussing a serious illness.
📌 6️⃣ Recognize Support Systems
Identify family, friends, or community members who assist the patient.
✅ Example: A nurse observes interactions to see who the patient relies on for decision-making.
📌 7️⃣ Avoid Medical Jargon
Use clear, simple language that the patient understands.
✅ Example: Instead of saying “hypertension”, say “high blood pressure”.
📌 8️⃣ Clarify Patient’s Understanding of Care
Ensure the patient comprehends medical instructions and treatment plans.
✅ Example: Asking, “Can you explain back to me what you need to do at home?”
📌 9️⃣ Offer Resources to Reduce Healthcare Disparities
Provide health education, support programs, and financial assistance options.
✅ Example: Connecting a low-income patient with a community clinic for follow-up care.
