What it means
The first step toward culturally responsive care. It starts with looking at one's own background and assumptions, then learning that clients from other cultures may hold different views about health, illness, family roles, food, touch and death. It helps a nurse notice when their own views may affect care.
For the nurse
Reflect on your own beliefs and how they could shape your reactions, and ask clients about their preferences rather than assuming.
Related terms
cultural sensitivity
Being aware of and respecting cultural differences in beliefs, values and practices, without judging them.
cultural humility
A lifelong habit of self-reflection and learning in which the nurse treats each client as the expert on their own culture.