Caring for Chinese, Filipino, & Vietnamese Populations
A. Describe health and illness practices that may augment problems associated with the treatment of hypertension for Chinese-American clients.
B. Describe the locus-of-control variable that some Filipino Americans have that may influence health-seeking behavior.
C. Describe the importance of folk medicine and folk healers to Vietnamese Americans.
Sample Solution
A. Health and Illness Practices Affecting Hypertension Treatment in Chinese Americans:
- Dietary Practices: Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes balance and may include foods high in sodium (e.g., soy sauce, fermented vegetables) that can worsen hypertension.
- Herbal Remedies: Some unregulated herbal remedies may interact with antihypertensive medications or have unknown side effects.
- Acupuncture: While some research suggests acupuncture can be a
Full Answer Section
- Beliefs about Illness: Some Chinese Americans may view hypertension as a sign of weakness or imbalance, leading to delays in seeking medical attention.
- Locus of Control and Filipino American Health-Seeking Behavior:
- External Locus of Control: Some Filipino Americans may believe their health is influenced by fate, luck, or spirits (passivity). This can lead to delaying treatment or relying solely on folk remedies.
- Importance of Family: Decisions about healthcare may involve the entire family, potentially causing delays or conflicting priorities.
- Respect for Authority Figures: Filipino Americans might value the opinions of doctors and nurses but may hesitate to ask questions or express concerns.
- Folk Medicine and Folk Healers in Vietnamese Americans:
- Traditional Beliefs: Vietnamese folk medicine emphasizes restoring balance within the body using herbal remedies, dietary practices, and massage (ấm acupressure).
- "Thầy thuốc" (Folk Healers): These traditional healers hold a respected position in the community and may be consulted before seeking biomedicine.
- Herbal Remedies: "Nam dược" (herbal remedies) are widely used, but potential interactions with medications or unknown side effects are a concern.