Health equity/ cultural competence

health equity

attainment of the highest level of health for all people

equity= equal- all health treatment should be the same

vulnerable populations

those in greater risk of developing health problems based on sociocultural status

social determinants of health

how where we live, play, work and study impact our health

economic stability, neighborhood and physical environment, education, food, community, health care system

health disparities

particular types of health difference that is closely linked with social, economic and environmental disadvantages

Nurses roles against health disparities

recognize that disparities exist and plan specific, individualized interventions for those risks

be Allies and speak up against racism, discrimination and injustice

what is cultural awareness

understanding, acknowledgment and appreciation that different cultures exist

how can we be culturally aware

recognize own ethic & cultural beliefs and recognize bias towards other cultures and ethnicities

understanding allows for better assessment of needs and helps build trusting relationships and improve outcomes

unconscious bias

bias we are unaware of and it happens outside our control, which is influenced by our personal background, cultural environment and personal experiences

stereotyping

an assumption or an opinion about an individual or groups of people based on common information AKA status quo

generalizing

assigning traits to certain group of people- similar to stereotyping

ethnocentrism

tendency to believe that ones own cultural norms are superior to others cultural beliefs

discrimination

treating a group or person unfavorably because of particular trait, race, culture etc

prejudice

an irrational attitude of hostility directed against an individual, a group, a race, or their supposed characteristics

ex- men are seen as stronger- so you believe that they don’t need much pain management

how can we develop cultural competence

provide culturally appropriate and specifically tailored care to people of all ethnicities and cultures

cultural awareness and knowledge

being aware of ones biases towards other cultures and learning to become educated about the beliefs and values of others

ways to help you understand ones culture

storytelling- helps you identify the problems affecting a patients health status

empowers them to use their voice

gives patient control

help you tailor care to them