A patient from an unfamiliar culture appears disinterested when the physician is telling her about options for treatment of a new diagnosis. After the physician leaves, the nurse attempts to talk to the patient and notices the same behavior. What action by the nurse is best?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Communication differences can lead to misunderstandings and possible medical errors. Many cultural groups have verbal and nonverbal communication patterns that differ from other groups. Variations can occur due to personal or social situations. The nurse should attempt to learn about the cultural group's communication patterns. Giving the patient written material and leaving the patient alone do not help solve this dilemma, and the patient may not have the literacy skills to understand the material. Asking the patient the meaning of behavior is unlikely to elicit useful information because the patient herself may not totally understand it or be able to articulate it. This may be a deeply seated cultural custom that is simply part of who the patient is.

A Patient from an Unfamiliar Culture Appears Disinterested When the Physician