Introduction

Figure 2.1 Appreciating Cultural Differences Each person and family is unique, with their own needs and preferences. (credit: modification of work “School diversity many hands held together” by Wonder woman0731/Flickr, CC BY 2.0).

Chapter Outline

2.1 Person- and Family-Centered Care

2.2 Family Health and Cultural Factors

2.3 Culturally Competent Care

2.4 Families at Higher Risk for Poor Health Outcomes

The patients and families who come from our communities represent unlimited diversity that can be both visible and invisible. But even seemingly visible factors like a person’s race and age may not be what they appear. Nurses must not make assumptions about their patients. Only by being culturally competent and systematically asking culturally sensitive questions are nurses able to provide the best care.

To be inclusive of all patients who require obstetric and gynecologic care, this textbook uses the terms person assigned female at birth (AFAB) and pregnant person as well as others. In addition to caring for people of all races, ages, abilities, ethnicities, and religions, nurses care for people of all gender identities and sexual orientations. All are members of the community served by nurses, and all deserve culturally competent nursing care.