A Dictionary of Patients' Spiritual & Cultural Values for Health Care ...

SpokespersonTime orientationare led by a strong matriarch, such as a grandmother or single mother.Life issues may take priority over keeping appointments.ConsentsDeath - bodycareDeath - specialneedsDying processIllness beliefsInvasiveproceduresOrgan donationPainTerminal illnessdiscussionVisitorsHealth, Illness and DeathAvoid using medical jargonSolicit feedback to assess understanding of the patient and/or his or herfamily.Tragic American history of African Americans being abused as experimentalsubjects in research, such as the Tuskegee Experiments of the early to mid20 th century, may spur skepticism and prevent research volunteering andperhaps organ donation.May want professionals to clean and prepare bodyMay have spiritual practices or rituals that can vary from Islam to BaptistChristianity.May show open and public display of immense grief.Attendance from family and relatives expected but independencemaintained.Varies from natural causes and exposure to cold air to God’s punishment orwork of devil or a spell/curse.Historically skeptical, though with clear explanations, needed surgery isacceptedMay have religious restrictionsPain scales helpfulMay not wish medication due to fear of addictionPatient and family may wish to include spiritual leaderMay bring food and/or dessertsMay sleep at bedsidePregnancy, Birth, PostpartumBreastfeedingC-SectionGenetic defectsLaborGive instruction about benefitsAccepted if indicatedMay be viewed as God’s willActive participantFather’s role varies; may have only females present40