A Culturally Competent Approach.A description of implications for health practices.
Describe an interview of a person from a cultural background that is different from your own.
Select a person from a cultural group different from your own ( Im Cuban). You may choose a patient, friend, or work colleague. For the sake of confidentiality, do not reveal the name of the person you interview; use only initials.
In your paper, include the following:
A complete cultural assessment using the 12 domains from the Purnell Model for Cultural Competence in your textbook, Transcultural Health Care: A Culturally Competent Approach.
A description of implications for health practices.
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:
- 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.
- Education: Y.L. has a high school diploma from China. The language barrier has limited her educational opportunities in the US.
- 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.
- Nutrition: Y.L. prefers a diet rich in vegetables, rice, and fish. She's adapting to American cuisine but might miss certain traditional dishes.
- 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.
- Economy: Y.L. works in a factory job. Financial limitations might restrict her access to healthcare services.
- Religion: Y.L. identifies as Buddhist. Her beliefs emphasize balance and harmony, which might influence her approach to health and well-being.
- Communication: Language is a significant barrier. Y.L. relies on her son for communication with healthcare providers.
- Social Organization: Y.L. feels somewhat isolated due to the language barrier. Connecting her with Chinese cultural communities could be beneficial.
- 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.
- Leisure: Y.L. enjoys spending time with family and practicing Tai Chi, a form of traditional Chinese exercise.
- 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.
- 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.