Cultural Diversity Assessments

Providing appropriate care planning for diverse cultures is important. In this discussion board I will define cultural diverse assessments. Then I will discuss important components of a comprehensive assessment followed by giving five communication skills that aide in culturally competent health care.

Cultural diverse assessment encompasses assessing not only the individual, but also the family, and the community in regards to their health care. The health care assessment includes their culture practices, values and beliefs. The next part of the assessment is to develop a plan of care that is in cultural alignment with their beliefs and values (Andrews & Boyle, 2012). There are important components to include in a cultural assessment. These

The religious practices and beliefs can help in planning care. Rituals and beliefs concerning life and death need to be included in planning care. Religious practices are generally rooted in culture, and these practices define what health is and dictate the behaviors on whether an illness is treated or prevented from being treated (Giger, 2013). Religious beliefs can decide whether certain treatments can be done. For instance, people who belong to Jehova’s Witness will not receive blood products. The last component I am going to address is health beliefs and practices within a culture. It is important to know what the culture’s definition of health and illness is. Knowing if the culture believes in using folk health care and or traditional health care is important (Douglas et al., 2014). In some cultures people tend to ignore their health problems. Different cultures place varying values on health and illness and have varying beliefs in what healthcare is to them. It is important as healthcare providers to be respectful of the different beliefs and practices each culture

I will discuss how verbal, non-verbal, engaged listening, management of self-emotions, and paraphrasing are communication skills that are important to have. Verbal communication skills include not only language, but also the tone of the voice, voice quality, speed, and intonation. Obtaining an interpreter for non-English speaking patients is important to communicate, but also controlling your tone and speed when talking will aide in effective communication. In addition, your non-verbal communication can also be a helpful tool. Paying attention to maintaining eye contact if it is culturally acceptable, as well as controlling your facial expressions and body posture are part of effective communicating (Giger,