Module 9: Culture

Question 1

define culture.

Answer 1

Is the accepted patterns of knowledge, beliefs, attitudes & behaviours by which a group of people live.

• shared history, tradition, attitudes, values, goals & practices characteristic of a group.
• culture is social defined, dynamic & ever changing.
• cultural groups can be defined by:
• ethnicity
• race
• religion & spirituality
• geographic location

Question 2

Identify risk factors (associated with cultural heritage/history) that increases a person’s risk for mental illness. (6)

Answer 2

• Trauma or fright
• Racism or discrimination
• Cultural bereavement - dislocation from community
• Lack established networks in the community
• Change of traditions roles within family & lack of support
• Loss of status

Question 3

Describe culturally appropriate approaches to treatment. (duty of care & culturally safe practice) (5)

Answer 3

1) Awareness: of differences & own culture
2) Sensitivity: acceptance of difference
3) Safety: healthcare delivered in a manner that respects cultural heritage
4) Competence: care across cultures, integrated, holistic
5) Proficiency: ensures & advocates that the persons culture, language, customs, attitudes, beliefs - accepted & respected.

Question 4

Describe culturally appropriate approaches to treatment. (nursing assessment & competence) (9)

Answer 4

1) Full MH assessment, MSE & risk assessment
2) Communication & working with interpreters
3) Therapeutic alliance, respect & trust
4) working with family & community
5) Information & education
6) Different meaning of ‘health’ & treatment
7) Medications
8) Flexibility & advocacy
9) religious beliefs & spirituality

Question 5

Nursing interventions when working with Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people. (10)

Answer 5

• Setting & assessment where comfortable 
• Respect for cultural diversity 
• Multidisciplinary team -> support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health workers 
• Pace the assessment -> allow to tell story 
• Culturally appropriate counselling techniques  *Consider gender issues 
• ‘Western model’ perceptions of assessment – culturally appropriate/ relevant considerations 
• Grief & bereavement 
• Family & community inclusivity 
• Health perceptions of wellness- illness

Question 6

What are the main differences the nurses should consider when addressing Indigenous persons, compared to non-indigenous? (8)

Answer 6

• Appearance – may differ to ‘general population’.  *Hallucinations and delusions – result of spiritual health. 
• Distress – should be considered seriously & consider risk. 
• Shyness or shame may be confused with sadness – reserved response/flat affect. 
• Do not ‘judge’ delayed responses as a sign of slowed or impaired functioning. 
• General knowledge – attention & concentration.  *Insight – understanding of mental health may be different to ‘western model’. 
• Respectful of gender issues.