Describe the importance of folk medicine practices and folk healers to African Americans in the rural setting.
Mrs. M., a Mexican American who just gave birth, tells the nurse not to include certain foods on her meal tray because her mother told her to avoid those foods while breastfeeding. The nurse tells her that she doesn’t have to avoid any foods and should eat whatever she desires. What concept does this demonstrate?
Describe at least two communication barriers encountered by non-Navajo nurses when providing care to Navajo clients.
Folk medicine practices and folk healers have played a significant role in the health and well-being of African Americans, particularly in rural settings. These traditions have been passed down through generations, providing a valuable source of knowledge and support.
Key Importance:
The nurse’s interaction with Mrs. M demonstrates a lack of cultural competency. Cultural competency is the ability to interact effectively with people from different cultural backgrounds. In this case, the nurse failed to recognize the importance of Mrs. M’s cultural beliefs and traditions regarding breastfeeding. By dismissing her concerns, the nurse may have inadvertently created a barrier to effective communication and care.