I work as a nurse in a large urban hospital in the United States. The greatest cultural issues and trends that I frequently encounter are:

• Language barriers: Many of our patients speak languages other than English. This can make it difficult to communicate with them and to provide them with the care they need.
• Cultural beliefs and values: Different cultures have different beliefs and values about health and healthcare. This can lead to misunderstanding and conflict if nurses are not aware of these differences.
• Discrimination: Patients from minority groups are often more likely to experience discrimination in healthcare. This can lead to poorer health outcomes.

As professional nurses, we have a responsibility to rise to these challenges and to provide culturally competent care to all of our patients. Here are some ways that we can do this:

• Learn about different cultures. We should take the time to learn about the cultures of our patients, including their beliefs, values, and traditions. This will help us to better understand their needs and to provide them with care that is respectful of their culture.
• Use interpreters. When communicating with patients who do not speak English, we should use interpreters whenever possible. This will help to ensure that the patient understands what we are saying and that we understand what they are saying.
• Be culturally sensitive. We should be mindful of our own cultural biases and how they might affect our interactions with patients. We should also be respectful of patients’ cultural beliefs and values, even if we don’t agree with them.
• Advocate for patients. We should advocate for our patients and ensure that they receive the care they need, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or cultural background.

Here are some examples of cultural recognition while implementing evidence-based standards of care:

• A nurse is caring for a patient who is a Muslim. The nurse knows that Muslims pray five times a day and that they face Mecca when they pray. The nurse asks the patient about their prayer needs and provides them with a space and a prayer rug so that they can pray during their hospital stay.
• A nurse is caring for a patient who is a Jehovah’s Witness. Jehovah’s Witnesses do not accept blood transfusions. The nurse knows this and is careful to avoid any treatments that would require a blood transfusion.
• A nurse is caring for a patient who is Native American. Native Americans have a long history of mistrust of the healthcare system. The nurse is respectful of the patient’s history and works to build trust with the patient.

These are just a few examples of how nurses can demonstrate cultural recognition while implementing evidence-based standards of care. By being mindful of the cultural needs of our patients, we can provide them with the best possible care.

Here are some additional tips for providing culturally competent care:

• Ask open-ended questions. This will help you to learn more about the patient’s culture and their individual needs.
• Be patient and listen carefully. It may take some time for the patient to trust you and to feel comfortable sharing their cultural beliefs and values.
• Be respectful of all cultural beliefs and values, even if you don’t agree with them.
• Don’t make assumptions. Don’t assume that you know what a patient needs based on their culture. Always ask the patient what they need and want.
• Be willing to learn. There is always more to learn about different cultures. Be open to feedback from your patients and from other healthcare professionals.

By following these tips, you can provide culturally competent care to all of your patients.