Nurses Must be Aware of Religious and Cultural Differences

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Nursing requires a tremendous amount of care both physically and psychosocially. Besides having a well-rounded medical knowledge, it is important for nurses to be aware of religious and cultural practices that are utilized in the world today. There is a multiplicity of different religious backgrounds and gaining knowledge on their differences and important traditions will allow nurses to provide competent care.
In the Jewish faith, death is seen as a natural process, one with many unique traditions that give friends and family the opportunity to spend time with the deceased. When death occurs, and Jewish rituals begin, the body is never left alone, as mourners will focus on showing respect for the dead and consolation for the living. Many communities are known for having a burial society, called the “Chevra Kaddisha,” or “Holy Society,” that’s purpose is to clean, and then wrap the body in a plain linen shroud. Then, a room is chosen and candles will be lit to represent the “shomerim” (meaning “guards”) that will watch over the body, as it is laid on the floor and covered. Because of this, the body cannot be cremated or embalmed, and even autopsies are severely discouraged, as these acts would disrupt the traditional Jewish mourning rituals. Within 24 hours of death, and before sunset if possible, the body is then placed in a casket and buried. Coffins are not required, however, if one is used, it must have holes drilled in the bottom, so the body may still come in contact with the ground. As for the living, Jewish mourners start phases of grief traditions, beginning with the tearing of one’s own clothing (Rich, 1996). Per tradition, mourners “cut their clothing with a razor- on the left for a parent; on the right for a sp...

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...ople cope with death. It is necessary for nurses to have empathy, compassion, and kindness when providing care for a dying patient and their family. Having a good knowledge base on important customs and rituals specific to certain religions will give nurses a better understanding of patient backgrounds. This will enable nurses to better help patients through grieving processes and will allow nurses to gain a better understanding of the patient’s family’s expectations post- death. Furthermore, the knowledge nurses gain about various aspects of religion, may help them to be unbiased toward their patients beliefs in relation to their own. This will permit nurses to have a therapeutic relationship with patients and families and will allow nurses to provide quality care. Providing religious support to patients and their families is significant when coping with death.

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