Healthcare beliefs and practices vary greatly among different cultures and heritages. Understanding these beliefs is crucial in providing culturally sensitive and appropriate care. This essay will discuss the health care beliefs of two heritages – Chinese and Native American – and explore the similarities between their cultural beliefs. Furthermore, the influence of these beliefs on the delivery of evidence-based healthcare, with a focus on nursing care, will be examined.
Chinese culture has a deep-rooted belief in the harmony of the body, mind, and spirit. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is based on the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”), which is the vital force that flows through the body. It is believed that illness occurs when this Qi is disrupted or imbalanced. Therefore, Chinese healthcare practices aim to restore the balance and flow of Qi.
TCM includes various therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary therapy. Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles at specific points in the body to stimulate Qi flow. Herbal medicine utilizes plants and substances to restore harmony within the body. Dietary therapy emphasizes the importance of consuming balanced and seasonal foods to maintain health.
In contrast, Native American beliefs focus on the interconnectedness of all things in nature. They view health as a state of balance and harmony with the environment. Native American healing practices often involve rituals, ceremonies, and the use of medicinal plants.
One important aspect of Native American healthcare is the concept of the medicine wheel. This symbol represents the interconnectedness of the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of a person. Healing ceremonies and rituals are conducted to restore this balance and harmony.
Despite the differences in their beliefs, there are some similarities between the healthcare beliefs of the Chinese and Native American cultures. Both value and emphasize the holistic nature of health, recognizing the importance of the mind, body, and spirit in maintaining well-being. Furthermore, both cultures believe in the use of natural remedies and practices that are rooted in their respective traditional medicines.
The influence of these cultural beliefs on the delivery of evidence-based healthcare, particularly in the context of nursing care, is significant. Nurses play a crucial role in providing culturally sensitive care and bridging the gap between patients’ beliefs and evidence-based practice.
When caring for Chinese patients, nurses should be aware of the importance of maintaining harmony and balance. They should inquire about the patient’s use of TCM and any traditional remedies they may be using. Nurses should also be knowledgeable about the potential interactions between TCM herbal remedies and Western medications. By integrating evidence-based practices with the patient’s cultural beliefs, nurses can provide holistic care that respects and integrates the patient’s values and preferences.
Similarly, when caring for Native American patients, nurses should acknowledge the importance of spirituality and connection with nature. Many Native American patients may prefer traditional healing practices alongside Western medicine. It is important for nurses to respectfully integrate these practices into the patient’s care plan and collaborate with traditional healers if appropriate. By doing so, they can promote patient-centered care and enhance the healing process.
In conclusion, cultural beliefs greatly influence healthcare practices, including nursing care. Chinese and Native American heritages have distinct healthcare beliefs rooted in their respective traditional medicines. Despite their differences, both emphasize the holistic nature of health and the use of natural remedies. Understanding and respecting these cultural beliefs is essential in providing evidence-based healthcare that is tailored to the individual. Nurses play a vital role in bridging the gap between cultural beliefs and evidence-based practice, promoting patient-centered care that integrates the patient’s values and preferences.
