People of Japanese Heritage People of Jewish Heritage Read chapter 18 and 19 review the attached Power Point presentations. Once done answer the following questions; 1. Describe the health care beliefs of the Japanase and the Jewish culture and if there is any similarity in both cultures. 2. How religion influence the delivery of community nursing care specially in an APA format word document on an Aral 12 font, A minimum of 3 references. Please follow proper instructions. A minimum of 500 words are required.
Title: The Health Care Beliefs of the Japanese and Jewish Cultures
Introduction:
The delivery of community nursing care is shaped by various factors, including cultural beliefs and religious practices. This paper explores the health care beliefs of the Japanese and Jewish cultures, comparing similarities and discussing how religion influences the delivery of community nursing care.
1. Health Care Beliefs of the Japanese and Jewish Cultures:
1.1 Japanese Health Care Beliefs
In Japanese culture, health is seen as a state of balance or harmony within the body and with the environment. Traditional Japanese medicine, influenced by both Chinese and indigenous practices, emphasizes preventive care, treating the cause rather than the symptoms, and restoring balance through natural remedies (Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare, 2020).
The Japanese culture places great importance on cleanliness and hygiene to maintain health. Bathing, both for cleansing and relaxation purposes, is a daily ritual for many Japanese individuals. Additionally, traditional Japanese food, known for its freshness and simplicity, is believed to promote good health. Concepts such as “hara hachi bu,” which encourages individuals to eat until they are 80% full, demonstrate the Japanese focus on moderation and balance in diet (Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare, 2020).
The Japanese culture also values group harmony and collective decision-making when it comes to health care. Family members often play an active role in decision-making and care management, fostering a strong sense of support and responsibility (Kagawa-Singer & Kassim-Lakha, 2003). This familial involvement is particularly evident in end-of-life care, where the emphasis is on the comfort and well-being of the patient within the family unit.
1.2 Jewish Health Care Beliefs
Jewish health care beliefs are deeply rooted in religious teachings and practices. The Jewish tradition places significant importance on the preservation of life and the pursuit of physical and spiritual well-being (Tendhar, 2009). Judaism encourages the notion that individuals are stewards of their bodies and bear the responsibility of maintaining their health.
The concept of “pikuach nefesh,” which means “saving a life,” takes precedence over many other religious laws in Judaism. This principle allows for exceptions to religious practices when there is a risk to an individual’s health or life (Rosenfeld, 2008). Therefore, Jewish individuals may be more willing to seek medical interventions, even if they conflict with certain religious practices.
In the Jewish culture, dietary restrictions play a significant role in health beliefs and practices. Kosher dietary laws regulate the type of food that can be consumed and the conditions in which they are prepared (Rosenfeld, 2008). Observing these dietary regulations promotes the physical and spiritual well-being of Jewish individuals.
1.3 Similarities in Health Care Beliefs
While there are notable differences, some similarities exist in the health care beliefs of the Japanese and Jewish cultures. Both cultures emphasize the importance of maintaining balance and harmony for overall health. The Japanese focus on balance within the body and with the environment aligns with the Jewish belief in preserving physical and spiritual well-being.
Additionally, both cultures value the involvement of family and community in health care decisions. In Japan, families play an active role in caring for sick relatives, while in Jewish culture, communal support is encouraged to assist individuals during times of illness or bereavement (Kagawa-Singer & Kassim-Lakha, 2003; Tendhar, 2009).
2. Influence of Religion on the Delivery of Community Nursing Care:
Religion plays a significant role in shaping health care practices, particularly in community nursing care. The presence of religious beliefs necessitates a culturally sensitive approach to care delivery, acknowledging and respecting patients’ spiritual and religious values (Balboni et al., 2011).
In both the Japanese and Jewish cultures, the influence of religion on community nursing care can be observed. For Japanese individuals, the emphasis on maintaining balance and harmony informs nursing interventions that promote wellness and prevent disease (Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare, 2020). Health education programs can incorporate traditional Japanese practices, such as mindfulness and relaxation techniques, to address stress-related health issues prevalent in the community.
Similarly, in the Jewish culture, community nursing care should align with religious teachings that stress the importance of preserving life and physical well-being. Nurses can work collaboratively with religious leaders to address ethical dilemmas and guide patients in making decisions that respect their religious values (Tendhar, 2009). Additionally, knowledge of kosher dietary laws is essential for supporting Jewish patients in adhering to their religious practices while in care.
Conclusion:
The health care beliefs of the Japanese and Jewish cultures reflect unique perspectives on health and well-being. While there are similarities, both cultures hold distinct beliefs shaped by their traditions and religious practices. The influence of religion on the delivery of community nursing care necessitates a culturally sensitive approach, respecting the spiritual and religious values of patients from these cultures. By understanding and embracing these beliefs, nurses can provide comprehensive and respectful care that aligns with patients’ cultural and religious backgrounds.