Culture and Advanced Nursing Practice

Mrs. Demetilla Hernandez is a 63-year-old Cuban woman who seeks consultation at the Liberty health-maintenance organization (HMO) clinic because of weakness, lethargy, and fatigue that she has experienced for the last 2 months. A week ago, while cooking dinner at her daughter, Mariana’s house, she momentarily lost her balance and slipped on the kitchen floor. Although Mrs. Hernandez sustained only a mild bruise on her leg, her daughter insisted on taking her to the clinic for a check-up because of her persistent symptoms.

Mrs. Hernandez, widowed 4 years ago when her husband died of a heart attack, lives with Mariana, aged 40. Mariana is divorced and has three children: Luis, age 15; Carolina, age 10; and Sofia, age 7. Since moving into Mariana’s house, Mrs. Hernandez has been managing the household while Mariana is at work. Mrs. Hernandez prepares the family’s meals, attends to the children when they come home from school, and performs light housekeeping chores. Mariana is employed full-time as a supervisor at the local telephone company. The family, originally from Cuba, has been living in Miami for 12 years. Carolina and Sofia were born in Miami, but Luis came from Cuba with his parents when he was 3 years old. Mrs. Hernandez, who does not speak English, converses with her daughter and grandchildren in Spanish. Although the children and their mother occasionally speak English among themselves, the family’s language at home is Spanish.

At the Liberty HMO clinic, Mrs. Hernandez was diagnosed with essential hypertension and non–insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. The physician prescribed an oral hypoglycemic drug and advised Mrs. Hernandez to exercise daily and to limit her food intake to 1500 calories a day. Mrs. Hernandez was concerned because she usually prepares traditional Cuban meals at home and was not sure whether she could tolerate being on a diet. Besides, she explained to Mariana, she thought the dishes she prepares are very “healthy.” Proof of that, she stated, is that her three grandchildren are plump and nice-looking. Mrs. Hernandez told her daughter that, instead of buying the prescribed medicine, perhaps she should go to the botanica and obtain some herbs that would help lower her blood sugar.

What are the typical Cuban communication patterns you need to be aware of in dealing with Mrs. Hernandez?
How would you assist Mrs. Hernandez in developing a plan for a 1500-calorie diet and regular exercise?
Would you encourage Mrs. Hernandez to go to the botanica to purchase some herbs? How would you approach her desire to use herbs instead of the prescribed oral hypoglycemic agent?
Discuss some common folk practices that Cuban families may use to maintain health or cure common ailments.

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Let’s address Mrs. Hernandez’s case with cultural sensitivity and a focus on effective communication and care.

1. Typical Cuban Communication Patterns:

Several key communication patterns are important to consider when interacting with Mrs. Hernandez:

  • Respect for Elders (Respeto): Older adults hold a position of authority and wisdom. Address Mrs. Hernandez formally (e.g., “Señora Hernandez”) and show deference to her experience. Avoid being overly casual or familiar too quickly.

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  • Family-Centered Decision Making: Family plays a central role. Involve Mariana in discussions and treatment planning, as she is likely a key support person and decision-maker for her mother. Understand that Mrs. Hernandez may prioritize her family’s needs and opinions alongside her own health.
  • High-Context Communication: Cuban communication relies heavily on nonverbal cues, body language, and shared understanding. Pay close attention to these cues, as they may convey more than words. Be aware that direct confrontation or questioning can be seen as rude.
  • Personalismo: Building a personal connection is crucial. Take time to chat with Mrs. Hernandez about her life, family, and interests before diving into medical details. This builds trust and rapport.
  • Expressiveness: Cubans are often expressive and passionate. Allow Mrs. Hernandez to share her thoughts and feelings, even if it takes time. This is important for building trust and understanding her concerns.
  • Use of Folk Medicine: Traditional healing practices, including the use of herbs, are common. Acknowledge these beliefs respectfully and avoid dismissing them outright.

2. Assisting with Diet and Exercise:

  • Cultural Sensitivity: Recognize the importance of food in Cuban culture and the potential difficulty of changing long-held dietary habits. Avoid judgmental language about her current diet. Instead, frame dietary changes as a way to enhance her energy and well-being, allowing her to continue caring for her family.
  • Collaboration: Work with Mrs. Hernandez and Mariana to develop a plan. Ask about their favorite traditional dishes and explore ways to adapt them to fit the 1500-calorie limit. Incorporate familiar flavors and ingredients whenever possible. Perhaps the family can support her efforts by also adopting some of the healthier practices.
  • Practical Strategies: Provide concrete examples of portion sizes using familiar foods. Offer culturally appropriate recipes and meal plans in Spanish. Consider using visual aids, such as pictures or food models. Explore community resources like cooking classes focused on healthy Cuban cuisine.
  • Gradual Changes: Suggest gradual dietary and exercise changes. For example, start with reducing portion sizes or adding short walks to her daily routine. Small, achievable steps are more likely to lead to long-term adherence.
  • Family Support: Encourage Mariana and the grandchildren to participate in healthy eating and exercise alongside Mrs. Hernandez. This not only provides support but also benefits the whole family’s well-being.
  • Language Accessibility: All materials and instructions must be in Spanish, using clear and simple language. Consider using images and other visual aids to reinforce key messages.

3. Addressing Herbal Remedies:

  • Respectful Inquiry: Approach the topic with curiosity and respect. Ask Mrs. Hernandez about the specific herbs she’s considering and why. This shows you value her knowledge and beliefs.
  • Open Dialogue: Explain the importance of evidence-based medicine and the potential risks of using unproven herbal remedies, especially with diabetes. Emphasize that some herbs can interact with medications or have adverse effects.
  • Integration, Not Replacement: Instead of dismissing herbal remedies completely, explore the possibility of integrating them safely with conventional treatment. Suggest she discuss any herbs with her doctor to check for interactions. Frame it as combining the best of both worlds.
  • Focus on Safety: Emphasize the importance of regular blood sugar monitoring, regardless of whether she uses herbs or medication. This is the best way to ensure her diabetes is managed effectively and prevent complications. Offer to connect her with a pharmacist or herbalist who is knowledgeable about potential interactions.

4. Common Cuban Folk Practices:

Cuban families often use various folk practices for health and healing:

  • Botanicas: These stores sell herbs, religious items, and other products used in traditional healing.
  • Santería: An Afro-Cuban religion with beliefs in spirits and deities that can influence health. Santeros/Santeras may be consulted for spiritual healing.
  • Espiritismo: Belief in communication with spirits of the deceased. Spirit mediums may offer guidance on health issues.
  • Home Remedies (Remedios Caseros): Traditional remedies passed down through families, using foods, spices, or other household items.
  • Prayer and Religious Practices: Faith plays a significant role, and prayer is often used for healing and comfort.

Healthcare providers should be aware of these practices and approach them with cultural sensitivity. Understanding the patient’s beliefs and integrating them respectfully into the care plan can improve adherence and outcomes. Open communication and a willingness to learn about the patient’s cultural background are essential for culturally competent care.

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