Successful communication between healthcare providers and their patients from different cultural backgrounds
depends on developing awareness of the normative cultural values of patients and how these differ from the cultural
values of most western medical professionals. When cultural differences are poorly understood, a variety of adverse
clinical outcomes may result: reduced participation in preventive screenings, delayed immunizations, inaccurate
histories, use of harmful remedies, non-compliance, and decreased satisfaction with care? (Carteret, 2011).
There are many cultural considerations to be aware of while interviewing Sue Li who is of Asian American ethnicity.
The Asian community as a whole is conservative no matter the sex of the person. Sue Li should first be asked if she
would prefer to speak with a male or female nurse. Since the patient is only 20 years old there may be some resistance
in communication. The Asian Community has a strong bond with family. Their family extends to include all relatives not
just immediate members. Loyalty is expected within the family, and dishonor or disgrace is not tolerated. Self-control is
expected from all family members this demonstrates stamina and strength in crisis. In the healthcare setting Sue Li
may be unwilling to show strong emotions, pain, or grief because of cultural values. Cultural beliefs about health and
sickness often conflict with Western medicine, which prevent some Asian-Americans from seeking help for symptoms
or sticking with treatment. Another IMPORTANT consideration the nurse must check for is that Sue understands what she
is being educated about. There may be a language barrier. Sue Li may give the nurse a gesture as though she
understands when she is actually confused about her diagnosis or treatments. It will help if the nurse avoids asking yes
or no questions. The nurse must also give the patient time if she wants to confer with her family. Unfortunately this can
be time consuming and possibly delay care but building a trusting relationship is essential when dealing with different
cultures (Carteret, 2011).
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