How can community health nurses apply the strategies of cultural competence to their practice? Provide at least one example from each of the following four strategies: cultural preservation, cultural accommodation, cultural re-patterning, and cultural brokering. What is a possible barrier to applying the strategy/example chosen? Use an example that is different than the postings of other students. Purchase the answer to view it
Community health nurses play a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of individuals and communities. Given the diverse nature of contemporary societies, it is imperative for these nurses to apply strategies of cultural competence in their practice. Cultural competence refers to the ability to effectively interact and engage with individuals from different cultural backgrounds while respecting and valuing their beliefs, customs, and values. This essay will explore the application of cultural competence strategies by community health nurses, providing examples for each strategy, namely cultural preservation, cultural accommodation, cultural re-patterning, and cultural brokering. Additionally, a barrier to applying one of these strategies will be identified.
Cultural preservation involves respecting and preserving the cultural beliefs, practices, and traditions of individuals and communities. In the context of community health nursing, cultural preservation can be applied by integrating traditional healing practices into the healthcare system. For example, a community health nurse working with Indigenous populations could collaborate with traditional healers to incorporate traditional therapies, such as herbal remedies, into the treatment plans for certain conditions. This not only addresses the health needs of the population but also acknowledges and values their cultural beliefs and practices.
On the other hand, cultural accommodation involves making adjustments or adaptations to health practices to align with the beliefs and customs of individuals or communities. An example of cultural accommodation in community health nursing is providing dietary recommendations that are culturally appropriate. For instance, a community health nurse working with a Muslim community might take into account their religious dietary restrictions, such as prohibiting the consumption of pork, when providing dietary guidance to individuals within the community. By accommodating cultural beliefs and practices, nurses can enhance the likelihood of compliance and positive health outcomes.
Cultural re-patterning involves assisting individuals or communities in modifying or transforming their cultural practices to improve health outcomes. An example of cultural re-patterning in community health nursing is promoting safe sex practices in a culture that may have traditional norms inhibiting discussions related to sexuality. A nurse in this scenario may utilize education programs and communication techniques that respect the cultural sensitivity of the community, while also challenging and promoting new attitudes towards sexual health. This strategy aims to address cultural barriers that may hinder the adoption of healthier behaviors, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.
Lastly, cultural brokering involves acting as a bridge between individuals or communities from different cultural backgrounds and the healthcare system. An example of cultural brokering in community health nursing is assisting immigrant populations in navigating the healthcare system and overcoming language barriers. For instance, a community health nurse could provide interpretation services or connect individuals with available resources and services that are culturally appropriate for them. By acting as a cultural broker, nurses can facilitate more effective communication and access to healthcare for individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Despite the importance of applying these strategies, cultural competence in community health nursing can face barriers. A possible barrier to applying the strategy of cultural accommodation, as mentioned in the example above, is the limited availability of culturally appropriate resources and services. For instance, healthcare facilities may not always have access to interpreters or culturally sensitive educational material. This can hinder the effective implementation of cultural accommodation and undermine the nurse’s ability to provide quality care to diverse populations.