Lesson's Learned: Native American Culture
Prior to this week, I had no idea how many tribes there were within the Native American Culture. According to Running Strong for American Indian Youth they stated, "There are 566 federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes and villages in the United States, each with their own culture, language and history." In the article it expresses how every tribe may have specific traditions and unique styles of ways of living. Each tribe may eat, dress, and participate in cultural rituals differently than other tribes.
Within the Native American culture, it is believed that herbs have an affect on the soul or spirit of an individual. Both now and in the past, spiritual healing was believed to be performed by the tribe's Medicine Man or Shaman. These spiritual healing rituals involved the use of natural herbal remedies to aid Native American people in the healing and cleansing of the spirit. Most healing rituals are still being performed and play a large role within Native American medicine. Another cultural practice among Native American's is death rituals. It is believed that all death rituals have been passed down from generation to generation from their ancestors. It is a cultural belief, that death rituals focus on helping loved ones be more comfortable and protected in the journey to the afterlife. It's believed that when one passes, the spirit leader will perform the death ritual and ask the deceased ancestors to aid them throughout the ritual. Native American's will gather after a loved one has passed, and leave tools, weapons, pots, food, jewelry and other items in their grave to help the individual in the afterlife.
#nursingbyCOURTNEY.... how to use this info in your nursing care.
Throughout all my studies and research in other cultures I've noticed each culture has specific beliefs and practices regarding death. It's been interesting to see how death influences one's religious and cultural beliefs. Because spiritually is a key factor in the Native American Culture it will be important to recognize their believes in healing and spiritual ceremonies. Its critical for healthcare providers be aware of their spiritual needs in order to provide culturally competent care. Although, not all rituals are allowed within the hospital setting, nurses should be advocates for adapting to these cultural practices and find possible options for clients to practice their spiritual beliefs. I think overall, if we are willing to be open and understanding to different religious or cultural practices we will be more able to become more culturally competent.
Courtney's "Two-Cent's"
Over the course of these several weeks I have learned so much about the many cultures out there. Not only have I become more aware of cultures, I have been able to reflect more on how I personally feel towards different cultures. I've noticed that the more I've learned about a specific culture the more my mind set has been able to change. Although I don't know many Native American individuals, I believe that they have a very interesting and fascinating history and culture. I hope that the more I come to know these individuals the more I will be able to understand and adapt to their cultural needs. Overall, I am so glad I took this course because I have felt an increased knowledge about how to give better care to my patients.
References:
Quote taken from: http://indianyouth.org/american-indian-life/traditions-culture
https://www.warpaths2peacepipes.com/native-american-culture/herbal-remedies.htm
http://dying.lovetoknow.com/native-american-death-rituals
Picture taken from: http://www.hmxuan.com/bwin/bwin+apk+download+android+apk+games2C+apps+for+baixar+bwin+casino+roulette
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/468796642433981715/
http://www.1011now.com/home/headlines/Nebraska-Nursing-Home-for-Native-Americans-to-Open-Next-Year-323999991.html
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