Deaf Culture

This week's culture topic is focused on the Deaf Culture. I have been really excited about learning more about this culture! Within this week's reflection journal, I will talk about things I learned and how I improve with this knowledge. 


Lesson's Learned: Deaf Culture
Before I talk about the Deaf Culture, I thought it would be important to clarify some common misconceptions regarding the definitions of hearing function. The word "Deaf" refers to individuals who have little to no hearing function. This may be caused by genetic or environmental factors, injury, and disease. Many deaf individuals communicate with the ASL language (American Sign Language.) Another term to know is "hard of hearing" which refers to people who have not lost complete hearing function and can still hear with mild to moderate difficulty. Individuals who are hard of hearing may be able to communicate with sign language and or the spoken language. Lastly it is important to note, that the term "hearing impaired" may be considered offensive when used in describing Deaf and hard of hearing people. Many Deaf or hard of hearing individuals do not appreciate being labeled as impaired, thus it is very important to conscience of how we describe others. 

The Deaf Culture is comprised of individuals within the Deaf community who share similar beliefs, values, norms, heritage, language, attitudes, and traditions. Individuals who identify within this community may choose to be apart of it regardless of their hearing status. However, the community is commonly comprised of Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, as well as family members and people who work with Deaf individuals. The World Federation of the Deaf explained, "Deaf people have their own local, national and international organizations around the world, which might be social, athletic, scholarly, religious, and/or literary." People within this culture have built a great community of unity, support, and friendship. 

#nursingbyCOURTNEY: How to apply this knowledge to provide better care to patients
Within nursing school we have been taught effective communication critical to becoming a good nurse. It's important because it help insure safety for ourselves as well as our patients. We've also learned how if there are gaps within communication poor outcomes can result. While caring for Deaf patients there may be barriers to effective communication, thus resulting in possible patient dissatisfaction and negative outcomes. I believe because nurses do not receive proper training on how to communicate with Deaf patients there continues to be ineffective communication. As a result, our Deaf patients may suffer the consequences due to a lack of understanding of their exact needs. Ultimately, I think it's up to us to do our best to provide adequate communication to our Deaf and hard of hearing patients. 

Courtney's "Two-Cent's"
Honestly, I believe this culture is one that gets disregarded quickly. Most individuals don't think twice about the Deaf Culture and their needs. I guiltily fall into this category of cultural neglect. Until this week I didn't know Deaf was considered a culture! So this week I was very excited to get the opportunity to learn more about this culture and how I can be more aware. In all my research, I have noticed the lack of public and professional awareness of the Deaf Culture and community. Yet, another reason I am grateful for this class, and how it has helped me learn and becoming more aware of all the cultures out there! I think it's important more people become aware of this culture to be more mindful of Deaf individuals. Although bringing awareness may not entirely solve the neglect these individuals receive, it may help health professionals improve their approach to care and communication. In my research, I have found that getting an interpreter is one of the most helpful tools to provide better communication. Resorting to writing and giving handouts may be considered offensive and ineffective. As we care for Deaf or hard of hearing patients, we need to be mindful of their cultural practices and make sure they do not feel labeled as "impaired" in our approach of care.

References: 

Defintions taken from: https://www.deaftec.org/content/deaf-definitions

https://wfdeaf.org/our-work/focus-areas/deaf-culture

Pictures taken from: http://www.tlcdeaf.org/

https://www.partnershipfca.com/programs/deaf-services/

https://www.dccc.edu/news/2015/08/06/first-its-kind-program-trains-deaf-students-work-nurse-aides-deaf-elderly-residents

Hispanic & Latino Culture

This week's culture topic is based off of the Hispanic and Latino Cultures. In my reflection I will talk about some facts I've learned about the culture and how it applies to me.

Lesson's Learned: Hispanic and Latino Culture
Before I discuss cultural practices, I think is important to understand the difference between Hispanics and Latinos. According to Marcia Carteret in the Dimensions of Culture she explained that the term, "Latino denotes all persons living in the United States whose origins can be traced to the Spanish-speaking regions of Latin America, including the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and South America." Whereas the term "Hispanic" mainly focuses on the Spanish-speaking origin. Simply put... Being Hispanic is based on if you or family speaks the Spanish language, and latino is based off of geographic location. It is important not to immediately assume one is Hispanic simply because they speak spanish.

Within the Hispanic and Latino culture, family is very important. Throughout history, these cultures value family relationships and the role of each family member. For example, one's status within the family is based off one's age and gender. The role of the father in both cultures is believed to be occupied with respect and authority. Because a father is thought to be strong, honorable, courageous, the father is ultimately responsible for providing and protecting the family. Traditional practices of males have encouraged fathers to uphold the ideal of "Machismo." This term refers to aggressive and masculine attributes, men were expected to live up to. Because of this common traditional practice, women were also expected to honour male figures by showing respect and submission to husbands and fathers. Another common cultural practice among Latinos, is their concept of time. It is common within this culture to have a very relaxed and laid back attitude towards time. Most Latinos do not value punctuality and think of time as flexible, this mindset is very accepted within the Latino community. Within healthcare it will be common to see this types of cultural practices.

#nursingbyCOURTNEY.... How to apply this cultural knowledge to your nursing practice
It's no surprise that our country has become immersed with many different cultures and ethnicities. Thus the reason for nurses to learn how to be culturally competent. In 2004, it has been estimated that 55.3 million Hispanics reside in the US, which comprises of 17.3% of the total population in the United States. Knowing that these statistics are drastically increasing, it would be wise for healthcare professionals to understand the importance of respecting and recognizing cultural diverse individuals. Additionally, understanding basic cultural practices of Hispanic and Latino cultures will be a helpful component in practicing culturally competent care. I believe it will be especially important to recognize the role family plays within this culture. Because Latinos and Hispanics make decisions as a family, it will be important for the nurse to include teaching to the patient and family members. I believe if we involve the family members in the plan of care, establishing and building trust will become easier and patients may be more compliant.

Courtney's "Two-Cent's"
Like I stated previously, our country is drastically changing and becoming more and more diverse. I believe it is up to us healthcare professionals, to become more educated on different cultures to know better how to practice culturally competent care. I also believe if we are able to identify cultural patterns, our care will be more individualized to meet our patient's overall needs.

This week as I was researching more about this culture, I started reflecting on WHY I became a nurse. I'm sure I'm not the only nursing student who feels completely overwhelmed with the heavy workload demands. But through it all, I've developed a new way of viewing people. Instead of seeing individuals with a problem to fix, I see people as someone's daughter, friend, brother, etc. I see people as...individuals who matter. This week I was reminded why it's important for me to continue learning about different cultures so I can help make people feel like they matter. This is one of the reasons why I am working so hard to become a nurse. I want to make a difference in individual's lives, and aid in holistic healing and well-being.

References: 

http://www.dimensionsofculture.com/2011/03/cultural-values-of-latino-patients-and-families/

Statistics from: http://www.pewhispanic.org/2016/04/19/statistical-portrait-of-hispanics-in-the-united-states-key-charts/

Pictures from: http://reachhispanic.com/2012/03/21/young-latinas-move-out-while-young-latinos-move-back-home/multi-generational-hispanic-family-preparing-food/

http://intranet.tdmu.edu.ua/data/kafedra/internal/i_nurse/classes_stud/ADN%20Program/Full%20time%20study/First%20year/fundamentals%20of%20nursing%20practicum/23.%20Caring%20in%20Nursing%20Practice...htm

https://www.theodysseyonline.com/tackling-the-lack-of-latino-representation-in-the-media

Muslim Culture

This week's reflection journal is about the Muslim Culture. In my reflections this week I will discuss what I have learned about their religious beliefs and I can use this knowledge to better my nursing practices.

Lesson's Learned: Muslim beliefs 

Muslims believe that their God Allah is their one and only true God. They believe that this God is a singular being and there are no others they worship. Allah is an Arabic name for God and a universal name in which they refer to their God. Muslims believe this God is the creator of all the universe and He is above all things. It is also believed they those who put God at a lesser state of being is committing sin.  By living through His principles and guidelines they aim to please Allah. 

Muslims also believe in being respectful to individuals who faithful and are conscious of God and are also considerate and kind in their dealing with non Muslims. With the requirement to be respectful to God fearing or conscience individuals they must work together to solve problems within their social surroundings. They honor others and try to do their best to contribute to building the societies in which they live. Muslims believe in giving charity to others in need and when they need it, being slow to anger in times of frustration and forgiving all who may wrong you. These acts are believed to exemplify Muslim beliefs in God’s principles of being selfless and surrendering oneself by doing good and serving others. Additionally, by living by these standards one can develop humility and be on good standing with God.

Within the Muslim culture there are five practices or Pillars that each member must do to be in accordance with Islam. These pillars are: Shahadah, Salat, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj. Each pillar represents obligations in which Muslims must perform within their lives to show their faith and devotion to their God. The Salat is the second Pillar within the five practices of Muslim beliefs and is a performance of Muslim ritual prayer which they perform five times a day. They believe that God has commanded them to give prayers at specific times of the day- sunrise, midday, afternoon, sunset and before midnight. These ritual prayers are believed to involve the mind, body and spirit through set actions in their prayers.

#nursingbyCOURTNEY... how to apply the understanding of Muslim beliefs into your nursing practice

In the world today there are many conflicts and stereotyping about the Muslim culture. In the healthcare practice individuals must set aside biases, harsh judgments, and political opinions. It is vital that nurses understand the Muslim religious and cultural practice to provide more holistic and patient centered care to Muslims without stereotyping.  One cultural practice nurses need to be aware of is how Muslim women prefer to have same gender doctors and healthcare providers. Out of respect for their cultural practices nurses must do their best to accommodate with these preferences and not portray judgments. Additionally, Muslim women have certain modesty beliefs which may be difficult to adjust to during certain physical exams. However, nurses must practice good communication skills and first always ask permission to uncover parts of the body for any medical reasons. Also it is good nursing practice to provide proper privacy during any exams or treatments. 

Courtney's "Two-Cent's"

It has been interesting to learn more about the Muslim culture and religious beliefs because it is somewhat new to me. While growing up I had a neighbor who was Muslim, but I was too young to understand what that meant or why it mattered. However, now as I am older I am realizing how common it is to have negative stereotypes associated with the Muslim culture. I believe that many people are quick to stereotype Muslim individuals because they have not taken the time to understand them or get to know them personally. As I have studied and learned more about the Muslim culture and beliefs, I have been able to rid some of my own misunderstandings about their culture. I think if more people spent time to get to know Muslim's personally they would give less cruel and unnecessary judgment’s and be more open to accepting Muslim people. 

References: 

Facts about Muslim beliefs found on http://www.dummies.com/religion/islam/islam-for-dummies-cheat-sheet/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Five_Pillars_of_Islam

Pictures taken from: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/formerlyfundie/the-call-for-christians-to-radically-love-our-muslim-neighbors/

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/sep/01/muslim-women-veil-integrate-study

http://dailymail.com.ng/here-is-the-muslim-population-in-the-36-states-of-in-nigeria/

Catholicism

This week's topic was based off of Catholicism. Because this culture is somewhat new to me, this week I will share about the things I learned about Catholics. 


Lesson's Learned: What is Catholicism? And what do they believe? Why is baptism important to the Catholic beliefs. 

Catholicism is a religion similar to Christianity in a sense that they believe in a higher being, God. They ultimately believe that all human beings are made in God's image and thus God is their Father and creator of all things. The Catholic Church is a group of individuals within a community, who outwardly express their belief and love for God and His son, Jesus Christ. Catholics believe God is made up of three divine personages, the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. Additionally, Catholics call their belief in three persons in one God, "The mystery of the Blessed Trinity." It is believed that through living a good life and having faith they are able to show their love for God. 

Catholics profess their beliefs by being baptized to show their dedication and acceptance of the church, and promise to follow God's teachings. This sacred sacrament of baptism, is something that many Christian Churches have in common. However, within the Catholic Church, the practice of baptism occurs at a much younger age, infancy. Baptism is performed to help free the child from the "original sin" they were born with and to welcome them into the Catholic faith. This concept of "original sin" is not in relation to the actions the infant committed, but is in reference to the sins committed from past generations passed down through birth. Thus, because of this belief of all persons being born with "original sin", Catholics strongly believe that only through baptism it will cleanse an individual from their sins. Because of this belief in baptism, Catholics find it vital to do for the salvation of an individual's soul. 

#nursingbyCOURTNEY... how does this knowledge apply to me as a nurse? 
The role of a nurse is to care and provide aid to patients during their healing process. Throughout many years of research and evolving, caring for a patient's spiritual needs has become part of the dimension of nursing practice. I personally believe that recognizing a person's spiritual needs along with physical and emotional needs will best aid in holistic healing. Although I don't think nurses need to perform or participate in religious rituals, it is important to help assist a patient in creating a spiritual plan of care. As nurses,  I believe it is vital we show support and understanding to our patients spiritual needs and religious beliefs.  

Courtney's "Two-Cent's" 
My entire life I have wanted to become a nurse, particularly a NICU nurse. During my rotations on the mother-baby unit this past several weeks, I have learned more about how the parents religious beliefs influence the care we give to the infant. Although I have yet to experience a baby die on the unit, I'm sure someday I will encounter it. Now knowing more about the Catholic beliefs and practices, I will better understand the concerns parents may have with getting their infant baptised if any complications are to occur. In situations like this, it will be important to show emotional and spiritual support to help parents cope with the possibilities of death of the infant. We as nurses have the opportunity to help patients through the healing process. If we are both educated and aware of our patients spiritual needs we will be better equipped to provide for their needs. 

References:
Information on catholic beliefs and baptism : http://www.dummies.com/religion/christianity/catholicism/the-catholic-sacrament-of-baptism/
http://www.dummies.com/religion/christianity/catholicism/basic-beliefs-of-catholicism/
Images from: http://universe.byu.edu/2013/07/30/catholics-at-home-on-byu-campus/
http://www.agapecatholicministries.com/baptism-prep
https://www.pinterest.com/amptwirl/career-choice/