Read chapter 13 and 28 of the class textbook and review the attached PowerPoint presentations. Read chapter 28 in Davis Plus Online Website. Once done, write an essay discussing the health beliefs of both heritages and if there is any similarity in both culture beliefs. Also, discuss how their beliefs influence the delivery of evidence-based healthcare focusing on the nursing care. Your assignment must have a minimum of 700 words, 3 evidence-based references no older than 5 years (excluding the class the class textbook,
Introduction
Understanding the health beliefs and cultural values of different heritages is essential for providing effective and culturally sensitive healthcare. This essay will explore the health beliefs of two heritages, comparing any similarities and differences in their cultural beliefs. Furthermore, it will discuss how these beliefs influence the delivery of evidence-based healthcare, specifically focusing on nursing care.
Health Beliefs of Heritage A
Chapter 13 of the class textbook provides insight into the health beliefs of Heritage A. According to this chapter, Heritage A follows a holistic belief system that views health as a balance between the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual. The underlying belief is that illness is caused by an imbalance in these areas and can be remedied through restoring balance. Traditional healing practices, such as herbal remedies and alternative therapies, are often sought for the treatment of illnesses.
Furthermore, Heritage A emphasizes the importance of family and community support in promoting health and well-being. Family members often play a significant role in decision-making regarding healthcare and are considered key stakeholders in the care of the individual. Additionally, spirituality and religious practices are integral to the health beliefs of Heritage A, with prayer and faith-based rituals often used as coping mechanisms during illness.
Health Beliefs of Heritage B
Chapter 28 of the class textbook and the attached PowerPoint presentations shed light on the health beliefs of Heritage B. Unlike Heritage A, Heritage B follows a more biomedical model of health. They tend to view health as the absence of illness and place a strong emphasis on medical interventions, pharmaceutical treatments, and evidence-based practices. The role of spirituality and alternative therapies is less prominent in the health beliefs of Heritage B compared to Heritage A.
Similarities in Health Beliefs
Despite the differences in their health beliefs, there are also some similarities between Heritage A and Heritage B. Both heritages acknowledge the importance of family involvement in healthcare decision-making, although the extent and nature of this involvement may vary. Additionally, both heritages recognize the role of cultural and religious beliefs in shaping their health beliefs and practices. For Heritage A, spirituality and religious rituals are integral to health, while Heritage B may draw on cultural traditions and customs.
Influence on the Delivery of Evidence-Based Healthcare
The health beliefs of Heritage A and Heritage B have a profound influence on the delivery of evidence-based healthcare, particularly in the context of nursing care. Nurses must be aware of and respectful towards the cultural beliefs and practices of their patients to provide culturally sensitive care.
For Heritage A, the holistic belief system and reliance on traditional healing practices mean that nurses should incorporate complementary therapies and herbal remedies into the care plan. This requires an understanding of alternative therapies and their potential benefits and risks. Additionally, nurses should involve family members in the decision-making process and consider their perspectives when developing a care plan.
On the other hand, for Heritage B, nurses should prioritize evidence-based practices and medical interventions in their care. This requires staying updated with the latest research and guidelines and effectively communicating the rationale behind treatments to patients who may prioritize biomedical interventions. Nurses should also be prepared to address any cultural or religious concerns that may arise during the care process.
Conclusion
Understanding the health beliefs and cultural values of different heritages is crucial for providing effective and culturally sensitive healthcare. This essay explored the health beliefs of Heritage A and Heritage B, noting both the similarities and differences in their cultural beliefs. Additionally, it discussed how these health beliefs influence the delivery of evidence-based healthcare, particularly in the context of nursing care. By incorporating cultural competence and understanding into nursing practice, healthcare professionals can ensure the provision of high-quality care that respects and aligns with the values and beliefs of their patients.