Cultural Interview: Exploring Experiences Through the Purnell Model

Subject: Y.L., a 58-year-old Chinese immigrant who has lived in the United States for 15 years.

Disclaimer: Due to privacy concerns, Y.L.’s real name is not used.

Cultural Assessment: The Purnell Model

The Purnell Model for Cultural Competence provides a framework for understanding an individual’s cultural background and its potential influence on health beliefs and practices. Here’s a breakdown of Y.L.’s cultural background using the 12 domains:

1. Environment: Y.L. grew up in a rural area of China with a strong emphasis on family and community. She misses the close-knit social network she had back home.
2. Education: Y.L. has a high school diploma from China. The language barrier has limited her educational opportunities in the US.
3. Health Practices: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) was her primary healthcare system in China. Here, she relies on a combination of Western medicine and herbal remedies.
4. Nutrition: Y.L. prefers a diet rich in vegetables, rice, and fish. She’s adapting to American cuisine but might miss certain traditional dishes.
5. Family Roles and Beliefs: Family is paramount in Chinese culture. Y.L. lives with her adult son, who acts as a translator and cultural bridge for her.
6. Economy: Y.L. works in a factory job. Financial limitations might restrict her access to healthcare services.
7. Religion: Y.L. identifies as Buddhist. Her beliefs emphasize balance and harmony, which might influence her approach to health and well-being.
8. Communication: Language is a significant barrier. Y.L. relies on her son for communication with healthcare providers.
9. Social Organization: Y.L. feels somewhat isolated due to the language barrier. Connecting her with Chinese cultural communities could be beneficial.
10. Values and Beliefs: Respect for elders and collectivism are important values in Chinese culture. Y.L. might appreciate a healthcare approach that acknowledges her family and cultural background.
11. Leisure: Y.L. enjoys spending time with family and practicing Tai Chi, a form of traditional Chinese exercise.
12. Expressions of Distress: Y.L. might be more reserved in expressing pain or discomfort due to cultural norms. Paying attention to nonverbal cues could be important.

Implications for Health Practices:

• Language Barriers: Utilize interpreters or translated materials to ensure clear communication.
• Dietary Preferences: Be sensitive to Y.L.’s cultural food preferences when discussing nutrition plans.
• Integrative Medicine: Explore the possibility of incorporating TCM practices alongside Western medicine, if appropriate.
• Family Involvement: Include Y.L.’s son in consultations to facilitate communication and provide cultural context.
• Building Trust: Be patient and allow Y.L. time to feel comfortable expressing herself.

By understanding Y.L.’s cultural background through the Purnell Model, healthcare providers can offer more culturally competent care that addresses her specific needs and preferences. This can lead to improved health outcomes and a more positive healthcare experience.