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. The best action by the nurse is to

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 curandero(a). There is no cultural reason for the nurse to avoid asking the patient questions, and questions may be necessary to obtain necessary health information. The patient (rather than the daughter) should be consulted about personal cultural beliefs. The hospital routines for meals, care, and visits 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