Caring For East Indian Hindu, Haitian, & Jewish Populations
Describe the family structure of some East Indian Hindu families and the effect the family organization may have on health-seeking behavior.
What are the contributing factors that lead to the high birth rate in Haiti and among Haitian immigrants?
List religious needs a Jewish client may have while being hospitalized with which nursing staff can assist.
Sample Solution
Family Structure:
Traditionally, East Indian Hindu families follow a patriarchal joint family system. This means:
- Extended families live together under one roof, including parents, children, siblings, and grandparents.
- The eldest male holds authority and makes major decisions.
- Family plays a central role in decision-making, including health-seeking behaviors.
Effects on Health-Seeking Behavior:
- Advantages:
- Strong social support system for emotional and physical well-being.
- Family knowledge of medical history can aid diagnosis.
- Collective decision-making can encourage timely healthcare utilization.
Full Answer Section
- Disadvantages:
- Emphasis on family needs might delay individual healthcare decisions.
- Deference to elder family members might discourage voicing health concerns.
- Traditional remedies or home care might be prioritized over seeking professional medical help.
- Cultural and religious beliefs: Catholicism emphasizes procreation and opposes contraception.
- Lack of access to family planning: Limited availability of education and resources for birth control methods.
- Poverty: Children are seen as potential contributors to household income and future security.
- Limited social safety nets: Children can be seen as a source of support in old age.
- Dietary restrictions: Kosher food options should be available. Staff can help with meal selection and ensure kosher certification.
- Sabbath observance: Respecting limitations on using electricity or performing specific tasks during Shabbat. Staff can adjust schedules for procedures or medications.
- Prayer needs: Providing a quiet space and resources for prayer books or prayer shawls (tallit).
- Holidays: Understanding the importance of holidays and allowing flexibility for observances.
- It's important to remember that these are generalizations, and individual families and clients may have varying practices and needs.
- Culturally sensitive communication and respecting individual preferences are crucial in healthcare settings.