Cultural Diversity In Nursing

Throughout time, the role of the nurse has become very complex, and consists of much more than performing a specific set of learned skills. The nursing profession is constantly evolving in response to ever-changing expectations and developments. One such development is the need to provide culturally competent care in today’s diverse and multicultural communities. An awareness of cultural diversity is fundamental for any nurse in order to meet the health needs of every patient. Nurses need to acknowledge that each patient should be assessed individually for cultural differences. The American Nurses Association (ANA) indicates that nurses should understand how cultural groups understand life processes, how they define health and

Their tribal headquarters is located in Towaoc, Colorado, but members also reside in portions of southeast Utah and northern New Mexico, also known as the Colorado Plateau (Southern Ute, n.d). Known to be aggressive and warlike, the Utes were hunters and gatherers who moved around depending on the season as well as their need for a sufficient water supply. In 1988, the Colorado Ute Settlement Act brought an end to their water problems, creating a system that brought in water for drinking and irrigation (Culture History, n.d). This helped to promote a healthier economy for the tribe as well as serve the needs of the people living there. Handcrafted beadwork and pottery are a big part of the culture of the Ute Mountain Ute, as are tribal celebrations throughout the year. Every spring, the Utes gather together to take part in the Bear Dance, where they recognize the “awakening of nature and the appearance of a bear from his hiding place” (Cultural History, n.d). Other important traditions for the Utes include the Sun Dance (performed mid-summer) and regular purification ceremonies (sweat lodges).

Health Seeking

Her grandfather is the tribal healer in her community, and she was able to provide quite a bit of information regarding the health practices of her culture. Much of the information I found online was confirmed to be true and still a valuable part of the Ute philosophy. For example, her grandfather frequently leads sweat lodge ceremonies, not only in Towaoc, but also in Ute communities around northern New Mexico. In these, he helps others repair damage done to their bodies, minds, and spirits. Another aspect she confirmed was that many older people on the reservation seek out the medicine man for their problems, rather than go to a “white doctor”. She explained that they don’t like to go to the local health care center or hospital because they are expected to talk about their issues. The Ute culture is very stoic and non-communicative, and not very likely to ask for help. They may also be suspicious of modern healthcare, which is often not endorsed by the medicine man. However, she did tell me that the younger generations are learning that they need to ask for assistance, and realize that their culture tends to make very poor lifestyle choices. In Towaoc, the Ute Mountain Ute Health Center offers primary health care for all ages, and focuses on education about poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and substance abuse. This information was a bit different than what I found online, but overall,