Giger and Davidhizar's Transcultural Assessment Model
Choose one cultural group reviewed within this course. Using Giger and Davidhizar's Transcultural Assessment Model, perform a comprehensive assessment of how your selected cultural group’s beliefs and practices might impact healthcare decision-making, treatment adherence, your communication, your interventions, and your education to align with the patient's cultural values and preferences.
Cultural Assessment: Hispanic/Latino Population using Giger and Davidhizar's Model
This assessment focuses on the Hispanic/Latino population in the United States, a diverse group with a rich cultural heritage. Giger and Davidhizar's Transcultural Assessment Model provides a framework to understand how cultural beliefs and practices can influence healthcare interactions.
Communication
- Verbal: Language barriers can be a significant issue. Use of a translator or encouraging a family member to assist is crucial. Maintain eye contact, speak slowly, and avoid medical jargon.
- Non-Verbal: Respect personal space preferences. Direct eye contact can be perceived as disrespectful, especially for younger individuals addressing elders.
- Communication Styles: Communication may be more indirect and deferential to authority figures. Allow extra time for patients to ask questions through a trusted family member.
- Personal Space: Closer physical proximity may be comfortable than for some other cultures.
- Family Involvement: Family decision-making is common. Include family members in consultations and obtain their consent for treatment plans.
- Family-Centered: Family plays a strong role in healthcare decisions. Involve family members in discussions and respect their input.
- Machismo/Marianismo: Traditional gender roles may be present. Be sensitive to these roles when addressing patients and families.
- Polychronic Time: Time may be perceived as more flexible. Be patient with appointment schedules and allow extra time for explanations.
- Folk Beliefs: Traditional remedies (hierbas) may be used alongside conventional medicine. Ask about these practices and incorporate them when possible.
- Spirituality: Religion and faith may be central to coping with illness. Acknowledge the role of faith and consider involving spiritual leaders if appropriate.
- Genetic Predispositions: Be aware of potential genetic risks for certain conditions prevalent in the Hispanic/Latino population, such as diabetes.
- Beliefs in "mal de ojo" (evil eye) or "susto" (soul loss) may influence illness perception. Explore their understanding of the illness alongside biomedical explanations.
- Traditional healers ("curanderos") may be consulted. Maintain a collaborative approach, acknowledging their role in the patient's healthcare journey.
- Cost of medications and transportation barriers can affect adherence. Explore affordable medication options and transportation assistance programs.
- Cultural beliefs about medications (e.g., natural remedies being superior) may need to be addressed through patient education.
- Use a translator or family member to ensure clear communication.
- Speak slowly and avoid medical jargon. Use simple explanations and visuals.
- Practice active listening and allow time for questions and concerns.
- Develop culturally sensitive interventions that consider family involvement and traditional beliefs.
- Incorporate culturally appropriate resources and educational materials in Spanish.
- Educate patients and families about their condition in a culturally respectful manner.
- Tailor education to their preferred learning style (visual aids, family participation).
- Develop educational materials that acknowledge and respect traditional beliefs and practices.