understanding muslim culture

Many nurses treat each patient as they want to be treated and while this is the golden rule it is not always the best course of action when working with those who are of a different culture or faith. It is important to be open-minded and unafraid to explore our own feelings, biases, and correct misunderstandings to provide the best care possible. The following information is given to open an eye to the culture of Islam, an overview of the basic pillars and behaviors a nurse or medical staff could see or hear. When those in the healthcare setting have a good basic understanding of a culture it will become easier to treat the person as a whole, and to understand how to care for the patient and the family.

It is said that the religion of Islam was revealed to Muhammad ibn Abdullah, who is known as the Prophet Muhammad. The religion of Islam are as varied as any other however there are certain values and beliefs that identify as Muslim. To understand a person’s faith (of any kind) the first step is to learn some background and understand a little of the beliefs held. A good start understands the cornerstones of a faith; in the case of Islam these are called the five pillars. The five pillars are more based on actions than beliefs; the first is shahadah is an expression of faith and in the oneness of god and that Muhammad received and delivered gods final revelation to the world, and every Muslim is expected to say the shahadah at least once in his or her life, although most say it every day. The second pillar is salat the prayers which each Muslim must recite five time each day facing in the direction of Mecca. They are five different ones and cannot be said all at the same time and so they create a sort of rhythm which structures th...

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... while lying or while seated and every effort should be made to not disturb or interrupt. Many Muslims prefer to wash after using the toilet so having a jug or bottle in the bathroom or at the commode would be appreciated. Also it’s not just the nurses’ and doctors that should try and be aware of cultural preferences, kitchen staff can look into what is and isn’t prohibited as there are many rules on food choices that many westerners may not think of such as items with vanilla extract not being permitted due to the alcohol, (Queensland Health and Islamic Council of Queensland, 2011). To sum it up simply, treat the patient as a whole, and that whole person includes their faith and religious practices.

Works Cited

Queensland Health and Islamic Council of Queensland. (2011). Health care providers’ handbook on Muslim patients [Pamphlet]. Brisbane: Queensland Health.