1. Group 2 : 40-year-old black recent immigrant from Africa without health insurance Post a summary of the interview and a description of the communication techniques you would use with your assigned patient. Explain why you would use these techniques. Identify the risk assessment instrument you selected, and justify why it would be applicable to the selected patient. Provide at least five targeted questions you would ask the patient.

Summary of Interview:

During the interview with the assigned patient, a 40-year-old black recent immigrant from Africa without health insurance, several important findings were gathered. The patient expressed concerns about their health due to limited access to healthcare services. They reported experiencing mild fatigue and occasional episodes of shortness of breath. They also mentioned a history of childhood asthma but stated that it had not been recently evaluated.

The patient expressed uncertainty about the healthcare system in their new country and voiced concerns about the cost of medical care. They mentioned that their main reason for seeking medical attention was to address their ongoing health issues and obtain insurance coverage.

Communication Techniques:

In order to establish an effective and culturally sensitive communication approach with the assigned patient, the following techniques should be utilized:

1. Active Listening: This technique involves giving full attention to the patient’s concerns, emotions, and verbal/nonverbal cues. It helps demonstrate empathy and understanding, and also allows the healthcare provider to obtain important information about the patient’s health concerns.

2. Empathy: By acknowledging and validating the patient’s concerns and experiences, the healthcare provider can create a trusting and supportive environment. This encourages open communication and ensures that the patient feels heard and understood.

3. Culturally Competent Communication: Recognizing and respecting the patient’s cultural values, beliefs, and perspectives is crucial to establish a positive therapeutic relationship. This includes being mindful of cultural differences, language barriers, and taking steps to bridge the communication gap, such as using interpreters or providing translated materials.

4. Simplified Explanation: Given the patient’s limited healthcare knowledge and potential language barriers, it is important to use clear and simple language to explain medical concepts, procedures, and treatment options. This helps ensure proper understanding and enhances the patient’s active participation in their own healthcare decision-making.

5. Patient Education: Providing the patient with educational materials and resources, tailored to their specific cultural background and language, can empower them to make informed choices about their health. This includes information on preventive measures, available healthcare services, and potential sources of financial assistance.

Risk Assessment Instrument:

For the assigned patient, the use of the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) questionnaire would be applicable as a risk assessment instrument. This instrument examines the patient’s exposure to traumatic experiences during childhood and assesses their potential impact on current health outcomes. ACEs include forms of abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), neglect, and household dysfunction.

Justification:

The ACEs questionnaire is relevant in this case because the patient mentioned a history of childhood asthma, which could be associated with adverse childhood experiences. Additionally, as a recent immigrant without health insurance, the patient may face various hardships and challenges that increase the risk for adverse childhood experiences. Understanding the patient’s ACEs score can guide healthcare providers in developing appropriate interventions and support strategies.

Targeted Questions:

1. Have you been experiencing any specific triggers or patterns associated with your episodes of shortness of breath?
2. Can you describe your experience with healthcare systems in your home country? Are there any differences or similarities you have noticed in the healthcare system here?
3. Are you aware of any financial assistance programs or resources that may help cover the cost of your medical care?
4. How has your childhood asthma impacted your daily activities and overall quality of life?
5. Have you ever experienced any traumatic events during your childhood, such as abuse or neglect?

These targeted questions aim to gather relevant information about the patient’s current symptoms, healthcare experiences, financial concerns, and potential adverse childhood experiences. This information will assist healthcare providers in understanding the patient’s unique situation and formulating an appropriate care plan.