A family member of an elderly Hispanic patient admitted to the hospital tells the nurse that the patient has traditional beliefs about health and illness. Being a patient advocate, the best action by the nurse is to
A) avoid asking any questions unless the patient initiates conversation.
B) obtain further information about the patient's cultural beliefs from the family member.
C) ask the patient whether it is important that cultural healers are contacted.
D) explain the usual hospital routines for meal times, care, and family visits.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because the patient has traditional health care beliefs, it is appropriate for the nurse to ask whether the patient would like a visit by a cultural healer. There is no cultural reason for the nurse to avoid asking the patient questions, and questions may be necessary to obtain important health information. The patient, rather than the family member, should be consulted about personal cultural beliefs. The hospital routines should be adapted to the patient's preferences, rather than expecting the patient to adapt to the hospital schedule.

A Family Member of an Elderly Hispanic Patient Admitted to the Hospital