1. Nursing Assistant Monthly Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Understanding cultural differences April 2013

2. Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. April 2013 Understanding cultural differences What is culture?  A shared set of expectations, customs, and beliefs –Within an ethnic or regional group –Within any group  Examples –Italian culture, Jewish culture, American culture –Military, Baby Boomers, teenagers, ‘50s culture

3. Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. April 2013 Understanding cultural differences Cultural groups  Are made up of unique individuals –Not all members act or think alike  Learning about cultural groups: –Helps avoid misunderstandings –Enriches our own life experience –Can open us to new viewpoints –Can help us to provide more individualized care

4. Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. April 2013 Understanding cultural differences Beware of assumptions  Assumptions are automatic judgments we make about others  The problem with assumptions? –They are often wrong –They create barriers to communication –They can offend others (people want to be recognized as individuals)

5. Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. April 2013 Understanding cultural differences Culture and caregiving  Culture influences attitudes, values, and behavior  Understanding residents’ cultural background: –Helps us learn what is important to them –Sets the stage for better communication –Demonstrates respect and caring

6. Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. April 2013 Understanding cultural differences Cultural considerations  One’s culture may influence choices about –food –bathing method and frequency –physical touch –pain relief –end-of-life care

7. Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. April 2013 Understanding cultural differences Cultural considerations (cont’d)  Culture may influence views and feelings about: –the role of men, women, children –body language –the meaning of pain –the meaning of illness –death and dying The examples are endless…Can you think of others?

8. Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. April 2013 Understanding cultural differences Communicating across cultures  Keep an open mind  Be a good listener  Be respectful  Express an interest in others’ viewpoints or ways of doing things  Be open to sharing your own cultural background