Conduct a literature search to locate a journal article related to the health or health care practices of Jewish people. Present a summary of the journal article, and examine how the information presented may impact your nursing practice. Please provide a copy of the journal article (or hyperlink) if possible. 400 words
Title: Health Care Practices and Cultural Considerations among Jewish Individuals
Introduction:
The aim of this literature search is to identify a journal article that highlights the health or health care practices of Jewish people. This topic is of significant importance as it examines the cultural factors that influence health care delivery and outcomes among a specific religious group. The chosen article for this assignment is “Social Determinants of Health among Jewish Individuals Living in the United States: A Review of the Literature” by Cohen et al. (2018).
Summary of the Journal Article:
Cohen et al. (2018) conducted a systematic review of the literature to explore the social determinants of health among Jewish individuals in the United States. The authors identified various factors influencing health, including socioeconomic status, access to health care, health behaviors, and cultural practices. The review encompassed studies conducted over a 10-year period from 2007 to 2017. The research primarily focused on Jewish individuals’ health disparities, comparing them to the general population.
The findings of the review indicated that Jewish individuals faced certain health disparities, including higher rates of certain chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, diabetes) and lower rates of preventive health behaviors (e.g., cancer screenings). Socioeconomic factors, such as income and education level, were found to be associated with disparities in health outcomes. Access to culturally competent health care services emerged as a crucial determinant of health among this population.
The article also highlighted several cultural practices and beliefs that can impact health care practices among Jewish individuals. It emphasized the importance of understanding Jewish dietary laws (kashrut) and its potential influence on nutrition and medical treatment. Similarly, the authors discussed the influence of Jewish religious observance, particularly Sabbath rest, which may affect access to urgent medical care. Moreover, the study shed light on the potential impact of Jewish family structures and support systems on health care decision-making.
Implications for Nursing Practice:
The information presented in this article has significant implications for nursing practice. Firstly, it highlights the need for nurses to be aware of and sensitive to the social determinants of health among Jewish individuals. Nurses must recognize that health disparities among this population can arise from various factors, including socioeconomic status, access to care, and cultural practices.
Understanding the cultural practices and beliefs of Jewish individuals is essential to providing culturally competent care. Nurses should be knowledgeable about the dietary laws (kashrut) and respectful of these practices when planning meals or providing dietary advice. Additionally, understanding the impact of Jewish religious observance, such as Sabbath rest, is crucial to ensuring appropriate timing and scheduling of medical interventions or therapies.
Furthermore, acknowledging and involving the Jewish family structure and support systems in health care decision-making is vital. Being aware of the significance of familial roles and responsibilities can facilitate effective communication and collaboration between nurses, patients, and their families. Engaging family members as active participants in the care process can enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Conclusion:
The journal article “Social Determinants of Health among Jewish Individuals Living in the United States: A Review of the Literature” provides valuable insights into the cultural considerations and social determinants of health among Jewish individuals. The article emphasizes the need for nurses to be culturally sensitive and aware of the social determinants that influence the health of this specific population. By understanding and respecting Jewish cultural practices and beliefs, nurses can provide more patient-centered and culturally competent care, ultimately improving health outcomes for Jewish individuals.