Answer to Question 1
Correct Answer: 1, 2, 4
The AACN (2008) identified five competencies considered essential for graduates of BSN programs to provide culturally competent care. They are (1) participate in continuous cultural competence development, (2) use relevant data sources and best evidence to provide culturally competent care, (3) promote achievement of safe and quality outcomes of care for diverse populations, (4) apply knowledge of social and cultural factors that affect nursing and health care across multiple contexts, and (5) advocate for social justice, including commitment to the health of vulnerable populations and the elimination of health disparities. Nurses need to understand how cultural groups understand life processes so the nurse can develop an appropriate and individualized care plan to best support the client.
Answer to Question 2
Correct Answer: 1, 3, 4
Cultural assessments are the cornerstone for providing culturally competent care. To obtain cultural assessment data, nurses use broad statements and open-ended questions that encourage clients to express themselves fully. Some of the questions to ask are, Who is the decision maker for treatment and care? What does the patient believe the cause of the illness to be? What cultural remedies is the patient taking? These questions will provide cultural insights to allow the nurse to provide an assessment and care plan tailored to the client. There are a number of other questions that will continue to build on the nurse's understanding of the client's culture. Questions concerning the home environment are utilized to ascertain home care needs once the patient returns home. Employment information is usually obtain in a health history to determine exposures to chemical or environmental hazards but is not part of a cultural assessment.