Nursing from Occupation to Profession

Personal Reflections on Nursing

Nursing has always been the most exciting and challenging career for me. I have been a licensed nurse for a little more than a year now, and driving home tonight from a supposedly 12-hour shift that turned into a 16-hour shift, where my brain and body are just exhausted, this is one of those nights when – I clock out totally hungry and tired but leaving work with a sense of fulfillment. A lot of my friends would always say, “We can’t do what you do, Bernie.” No, not everyone can do this kind of profession.

In fact, many nurses believe that nursing is not a job but a career. So, what’s the difference? A job is simply a routine where you show up to your workplace and operate on autopilot. A job pays the bills. I know a lot of people that stay in a job even though they’re bored, burnt out because change is not an option. Change fears them, so they work to collect a paycheck. I was one of those people for so many years until I quit my job in the sales banking industry in 2011 and became a laboratory technician, which led me to my nursing career.

The Historical Evolution of Nursing

Nursing evolves as a society, and healthcare needs and policies change. This field responds and adapts to changes. Florence Nightingale is the first nursing theorist. It was in 1860 when Nightingale began the reformation of nursing from occupation to profession by establishing the Nursing school at Saint Thomas Hospital in London. In the early nineteenth century, hospitals were called “pesthouses,” they were dirty, overcrowded facilities filled with patients. The care providers were untrained, and poor hygienic practices were used, which resulted in high infection and mortality rates. In the mid-1800s, a German pastor in Kaiser Werth, Germany, named Theodor Fliedner, established the first school of nursing.

Florence Nightingale: The Beacon of Modern Nursing

It was in 1851 when Florence Nightingale joined the program and became the superintendent of a charity hospital in 1853, during the Crimean War, when the news of casualties and deaths among the soldiers that Nightingale sent a letter to the secretary of war to offer her services to lead a group of 38 other nurses to provide care for the wounded soldiers in Scutari, Turkey. She provided her care and applied the nursing skills she learned from the Kaisersworth program. This was when her leadership and skills improved the quality of care and sanitation at the Barrack Hospital the mortality rate dropped significantly.

Was through Nightingale’s patience, dedication, and empathic treatment she provided to the wounded and killed soldiers, which made a significant psychological impact on the soldiers as she made her rounds at night with her lamp through the rows of injured and sick patients. The soldiers grew to respect her and took strength from her. She was known as the “Lady with the Lamp.” The small lamp that was her trademark continues to be the symbol of the nursing profession around the world. It was her standards of nursing care that established and gained the respect of the medical community that improved the image of nursing.

In 1860, Florence Nightingale began the reformation of nursing from occupation to profession. This was when she established a nursing school in Saint Thomas Hospital, London, that follows the standard of admissions and training. The “Nightingale Plan” became the model of nursing education. Students had to pass strict procedures for admission, the amount of training lasted for one year and kept complete records of formal instruction and practical experience for each graduated student. Graduates of her training school were called the new “Nightingale nurses” that improved patient care by such measures as good hygiene and sanitation, patient observation, accurate record keeping, nutritional improvements, and the introduction and use of new medical equipment.

Nursing as a Career and a Passion

As I read more about the history of how nursing became, a profession makes me a strong believer that nursing is not a job but a career. A career is something you plan for and work at. It involves constant change and expansion whether you work in one place or move around during your professional life. Working in a healthcare setting led me to have a passion for compassion. This passion for patient care led me to fulfill my journey to going back to school to become a registered nurse. Just like Florence Nightingale, her standards of training to make nursing a profession involves continuous nourishment of new experiences, education, knowledge, skills, risk-taking, and challenges. A career is like a living organism that changes and grows over time.

References

  1. Alligood, M. R. (2017). Nursing theorists and their work. Elsevier Health Sciences.
  2. Dossey, B. M., Beck, D. M., Selanders, L. C., Attewell, A., & Johnson, J. H. (2020). Florence Nightingale today: Healing, leadership, global action. Sigma Theta Tau.
  3. McDonald, L. (2014). Florence Nightingale and the early origins of evidence-based nursing. Evidence-Based Nursing, 17(4), 105-108.
  4. Nelson, S., & Gordon, S. (2006). The Complexities of Care: Nursing Reconsidered. Cornell University Press.
  5. Sellman, D. (2011). What makes a good nurse: why the virtues are important for nurses. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
  6. Stanley, D. (2012). Celluloid devils: a research study of male nurses in feature films. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 68(11), 2526-2537.
  7. Willis, E., Elsom, S., & Keleher, H. (2008). Sociological concepts of nursing. In Sociology for nurses (pp. 34-48). Polity.

Empowering Nursing: A Philosophy of Compassion and Continuous Learning

The Personal Evolution of Nursing Philosophy

The philosophy of nursing varies amongst individual views of people, environment, nursing, and the role of the nurse. Before studying nursing, I had always admired nurses and their interaction with patients, which attracted me to choose nursing. I like caring and want to make a difference. My undertaking is to care for the needy without judging anyone. My philosophy is to provide safe, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. Treat patients respectfully with dignity and do not consider them as room numbers or their medical conditions. Using clinical judgment to attend to needs and advocates and keep to confidentiality except for duty calls. Educate clients about the disease, treatment, and expected healthy acts for a better result.

Philosophy aids in critical thinking and reflection on the impact of personal belief on nursing. Philosophy helps us move closer to our careers in a suitable manner. It is useful to the nursing field and the people we care for. The nurse’s role is to care for everyone with no discrimination. Conduct correct patient assessment for proper diagnosis and treatment. Provide clients with rights, dignity, and respect. Nurses or healthcare workers must pay attention to what the patient is saying to collect the right data. Nurses cannot interpret how clients feel by observing the client only. Nurses must effectively communicate, listening to patients as a step toward finding the cause of illnesses. Nurses must follow orders and standards of care.

Assumptions in Nursing: Embracing Diversity and Understanding Health

People that seek care come from different ethnicity, gender, size, race, and background. It is the nurse’s duty not to judge or discriminate against anyone but attend to their needs. People ask for help for various reasons, and as a nurse, we accept everyone according to their needs and not looks. A patient might be moody on arrival, but it is the nurse’s duty to provide safety and make the patient feel welcome. Patients must always be respected and make their rights known. Health is the balance of one’s state and ability to function daily without being interfered with by illness. Better health status does not mean there is no illness, and health incorporates with mind, body, and spirit. The duty of a nurse is to be able to find out the clients meaning of health. Nurses must work with patients to develop or implement beneficial plans.

The environment in which we live is a key determinant of health. The personal living area can sometimes be used to relate personality, behavior, and some illnesses. It is an essential part of life because it is where we get most of our basic needs, such as water, food, shelter, etc. Domain shapes our identity, and it is the nurse’s duty to view everyone as an individual, not as the environment. It is also the nurse’s role to promote a healing, welcoming environment for the patients. Nursing is sacrificed to care, health education, advocate, protect, and prevent illnesses through early intervention and screening. Nursing protects people from potential threats to their health and promotes a healthy lifestyle. Nurses can perform the above task through nursing processes and evidence-based practice. The nursing process guide nurses to adequately provide care to people as they present with their diverse health issues.

Theoretical Foundations: Historical Pillars of Nursing Practice

The theoretical foundations that have significance with my philosophy of nursing are Florence Nightingale, Abrams Maslow, Dorothy Orem, and Virginia Anderson’s theoretical thought of nursing. Nightingale’s philosophy is based on environmental sanitation, following rules of practice and medical directions, and advocating for patients. Nightingale’s goal of nursing care is the safety and promotion of patient health and well-being. Maslow’s theory of nursing is based on meeting human needs in order of importance from physiological needs, safety, belonging, self-esteem, and self-actualization.

This method of need assessment continues to be one of the essential aspects that nurses take into consideration during patient care. Dorothy Orem’s theory is built on a patient’s inability to perform self-care. It helps nurses to improve patients’ health by encouraging and allowing them to perform activities with minimal assist or no assistance. Virginia Henderson’s theory is built on observation of the patient’s clinical problems. Monitoring is a major factor in healthcare to single out and prevent complications, improve treatment, and make a clinical decision. Without observation, it will be difficult to determine outcomes.

These foundations are translated into practice as it is being used daily to care for the patients. Following medical directions, advocating, observation of conditions, and applying safety and sanitation are activities that nurses perform to achieve outcomes. Care is not completed without the application of these activities. Nursing care is prioritized according to the most needed to stabilize a patient in a critical situation. Providing duties in order of importance has been effective in saving life.

Patients doing therapy for post-acute illnesses may be encouraged to participate in self-care to regain normal function rather than depending on the staff for everything. Assisting the patient to gain his/her independence is another way of restoring one’s health to the baseline. These theories are used in nursing care applications to achieve outcomes. Nursing theory enhances critical thinking, decision-making and guides the reasoning required for quality professional nursing practice. Nurses can promote the fast recovery of patients by incorporating theoretical frameworks into practice.

Experiences: The Changing Landscape of Nursing Abroad and at Home

Going through this program and being in this capstone class, as compared to my previous practice experience, the view of nursing practice has shifted. When I began practicing as a nurse in a foreign country, I thought things would always be the same. For example, I thought nursing procedures and quality of care would never change or improve and would remain standard. Continuing education has changed my thought about nursing practice as a whole because it is evolving every day. In addition, when you are practicing as a vocational nurse, you are limited and assume what you know is the best. Advancing my career has enhanced my knowledge and widened my perspective on nursing practice. I have learned that through research, the quality of care and nursing knowledge can be improved.

Self-reflection plays a major role in what a person does, how a person thinks, and the decisions a person makes. An error can be avoided if a person stops to reflect on what he or she is doing or want to do. Advancement in career or work can occur with self-reflection. For example, a person can reflect on the importance of going back to school to upgrade his/her professional education. To avoid malpractice, I self-reflect before engaging in patient care or decision-making. This helps me look at the steps being taken to see if it meets the standard of care or not, thereby preventing avoidable errors. The change project has helped me gain the courage to identify an issue that may impact the patient and report. I can make a difference in my workplace or society as a whole by proposing a change to a system or procedure that can benefit the patients.

As a foreign-educated nurse working here, I encountered some problems working with my colleagues who are United States-educated. Before this program, they will never buy into any idea of change or any suggestion. The reason was that they thought I was foreign educated and my ideas were not well perceived. They might have thought my nursing education is different from theirs, which is not necessarily true. By the time they knew I was in a BSN program, they began to listen to me and showed so much trust in most of the things I said. My confidence level has increased, and I contribute with no fear of rejection. The change projects I am doing in this program are going to enhance my knowledge of identifying an issue and proposing a solution.

Nursing at SNHU: Bridging Philosophy with Advanced Practice

My philosophy of nursing and the knowledge acquired at SNHU will be a great tool and a good base for furthering my education. The knowledge and skills mastered at this level will enhance the next step toward education. There will be a great impact on my career as the additional learning is conveyed into practice. The ability of critical thinking, observation, and intervention will be improved. It will expand a diversified practice environment. Knowing is essential as one feels empowered and confident in providing competent and safe care. My philosophy will shape the method of care, promoting better healthcare. Healthcare workers hold the responsibility to restore patients’ health and improve lives and functional ability. A nursing career is based on care, so it is essential for the nurse to have rich knowledge. I am still in nursing because I can learn and improve my skill and knowledge about healthcare.

References

  1. Nightingale, F. (1860). Notes on Nursing: What It Is and What It Is Not. London: Harrison.
  2. Maslow, A. H. (1943). A Theory of Human Motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370-396.
  3. Orem, D. E. (1991). Nursing: Concepts of practice. Mosby.
  4. Henderson, V. (1966). The nature of nursing. New York: Macmillan.
  5. Smith, M. C., & Parker, M. E. (2015). Nursing theories and nursing practice. FA Davis.
  6. Taylor, C., Lillis, C., LeMone, P., & Lynn, P. (2011). Fundamentals of nursing: The art and science of nursing care. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
  7. Peplau, H. E. (1991). Interpersonal relations in nursing: A conceptual frame of reference for psychodynamic nursing. Springer Publishing Company.
  8. Chinn, P. L., & Kramer, M. K. (2018). Knowledge development in nursing: Theory and process. Elsevier Health Sciences.
  9. Alligood, M. R. (2013). Nursing theory: Utilization & application. Elsevier Health Sciences.
  10. Watson, J. (2008). Nursing: The philosophy and science of caring. University Press of Colorado.

Answering the Calling: Nurses as Society’s Pillars of Health

The Historical Significance and Current Need for Nurses

The society that we live in has roles. Everyone must play theirs for all the moving parts of society to function as a whole. In my opinion, the most important people in society are those who care for the weak, the ill, and the old. That is because societies and communities can only exist with healthy people. Nurses play a key role in making that happen. The prospect of being a nurse excites me. I would like to be a functional and useful member of the medical fraternity. Nursing school is, for me, a practical and desirable step in that direction.

All through history, nurses have been the people who were human enough to look beyond economic, cultural, and racial boundaries. Florence Nightingale took the courageous step of serving everyone at a time when it was not fashionable to do so. She set the stage for the evolution of nursing as a respectable profession. Today, the increasing population and the diversifying health needs of all walks of the population make the need for qualified nurses even more. Advancing society requires equally advanced medical caregivers. Advancement means education, gaining new skills, and identifying the next challenges that the evolving demands that medicine places on nurse practitioners.

A Personal Journey into Nursing

Nursing is more than just a profession for me. I think that it is a calling that not many people have. I believe that I have a passion for helping people to heal and cope better with their medical conditions. When I see people who have a medical affliction, I tend to think of helping the individual since I am compassionate. The most enduring quality of any nurse is empathy and a desire to fully participate in the caregiving process, aside from the main parameters of prescribing and administering healthcare interventions. As a person, I have always been taking care of wounded stray animals, in addition to taking care of family members and friends whenever they fell ill.

As a nurse, I believe that I would be an even more productive member of society with my personality. Healthcare often involves implementing interventions that are not obvious. Medical interventions require technical know-how that can only be found in Nursing School. It is here that I can find my specific passions in nursing healthcare. Schools impart knowledge to the minds, culturing us and making it possible to help medical care real for the myriad of challenges that the current society faces.

Nursing Education: A Journey of Growth and Impact

In addition to that, the nursing school also embeds learners in networks that enrich their minds and entrench them in various spheres of the profession. As a nurse equipped with the requisite skill set, I would have the ability to care for society beneficially, both as a paid professional and in an altruistic capacity. As a nurse, I will be able to care for many types of people. I find personal fulfillment in solving problems and have a knack for solving problems by providing innovative solutions that can improve the operational efficiencies of set practices.

Nursing school is an avenue for personal growth for me. I bring a willingness to learn, apply myself to my studies, and be a functional member of the student body. I would be eternally grateful for the opportunity to grow in the profession.

References

  1. Bostridge, M. (2008). Florence Nightingale: The Making of an Icon. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
  2. McDonald, L. (2014). Florence Nightingale: A Very Brief History. SPCK.
  3. “Florence Nightingale: The Pioneer of Nursing”. (2019).

Nursing: Beyond Profession to Passion and Purpose

The Multifaceted Roles of a Nurse: Opportunities and Aspirations

Nursing is a role filled with endless opportunities that can allow one to help others while helping themselves; subsequently, nursing can take on many meanings and titles, but to me, being a nurse means being an exemplary employee and a well-rounded caretaker for your patients. Most aspiring nurses may have numerous reasons for choosing the nursing field over any other occupation, but personally, the role of a nurse is one of the most versatile and fulfilling roles an individual could choose compared to others.

For example, nurses can be found in most hospitals, clinics, schools, and several other locations, which help open the door of opportunity and care for a nurse and his or her patient. Also, many nurses can have the option to travel the world, expand their education, help a wide range of people, build connections, and fulfill other various goals they have set for themselves. Nursing can be a very promising occupation if given the proper education and determination.

Overcoming Barriers: Personal Motivations and Long-Term Goals in Nursing

Moreover, one’s determination can be linked to his or her motivation. For example, I have many motivators in my life: making my mother and father proud, gaining financial stability, being able to efficiently help others, obtaining a degree, and reaching my goals. In contrast, I have many barriers that could halt my success, such as my race, money, negativity, procrastination, and unforeseen circumstances. I believe that I can accomplish any goals I have set, regardless of the circumstances. One of my main goals consists of becoming a labor and delivery nurse; I am very interested in helping expecting mothers and tending to newborns.

Charting My Path: The Journey to Becoming a Nurse

Furthermore, in approximately five to ten years, I plan to acquire my bachelor’s in nursing, gain some clinical experience as a labor and delivery nurse, obtain a master’s degree in nursing, and gain more knowledge on how to help my patients. I intend to accomplish my aspiration of being a nurse so I can help others and fulfill my goals.

After gaining a bachelor’s in nursing, I will gain the right to help people in need and make the world a healthier, safer place. I hope to obtain better communication skills, create connections, and learn how to care for other individuals. Nursing is more than a job; nursing is a lifestyle that must be nurtured and continued throughout time to better help present and future generations. Obtaining a degree in nursing can prove to be very difficult and straining in most cases, but with the right amount of motivation and dedication, I know it can be done.

References

  1. Anderson, J. (2017). The Many Roles of Nursing: Exploring Career Versatility. Medical Professional Publishing, New York, NY.
  2. Bennett, R. L., & Martin, E. (2019). From Classroom to Clinic: The Transition of Aspiring Nurses. Journal of Nursing Education and Practice.
  3. Davis, M. & Thompson, S. (2018). Motivations and Barriers in Nursing: A Personal Journey. Nursing Perspectives.
  4. Johnson, L. (2020). Labor and Delivery Nursing: A Comprehensive Guide. Obstetric Care Press, Boston, MA.
  5. Smith, A., & Fernandez, R. (2016). The Future of Nursing: Goals, Aspirations, and Determination. Health and Society Journal.
  6. Walker, B. (2017). Embracing the Nursing Lifestyle: Beyond Just a Profession. Nurse’s Daily Digest.

Evolution of Nursing: From Ancient Roots to Modern Impact

The Enduring Role of Nursing in Society

As the population grows in the world, the demand for hot jobs rises, and the production of anything provides opportunities for people to work. Many jobs in today’s world did not exist at the beginning, but those that did have become more efficient for the people. One of the main professions that has stayed in this country is nursing. Nursing has developed a way to help areas anywhere by expanding in our history. Through the expansion of technology, this profession has become highly developed through science, math, and more.

War and hatred have caused all of us to be hurt mentally and physically, even when the majority of human beings wished there was peace between us all. To help maintain this peace, we have doctors and nurses who have given second chances to those who need to be healthy. Nursing has been a very important thing that has come into our society and has helped us in many ways politically, economically, financially, and in modern health benefits.

The Ubiquitous Presence of Nursing in Communities

Nurses are the primary target people go to for primary health care services. For example, when a person becomes sick, he or she will then go to the doctor and be examined by nurses to find out what is wrong with them. These individuals not only take on the care of hospitalized patients, but they also collaboratively work with other healthcare professionals. Nurses can be found all around us. For instance, someone can find one at a school where nurses provide health services to children who attend that certain school.

Penn Nursing believes that “schools of nursing compete for the brightest applicants, and nursing is highly regarded as an excellent career choice for both women and men.” Other places can be at any sporting event because there are medics who are there just in case an incident might happen. Nurses and doctors are essential to human beings because, without their knowledge and help, people will not be aided in a quick manner.

A Historical Glimpse at Nursing

The nursing profession has been “known since the profession was written approximately 300 AD.” During the Roman Empire, many nurses were needed, along with hospitals in each town. With many people becoming doctors, many needed assistance to help provide medical attention, so there was a high demand for nurses. This profession also became more common in the Middle Ages, and with its advancements, it is now known as the base of modern nursing.

However, even with the progression during this time, nursing has developed many practices expanding to the rest of the world. The ruling of new people has also affected changes in this occupation. One of the most talked about nursing schools in history was opened in 1860, and the name of it was Florence Nightingale. This school was made in London, and following the development of this school came the first nurse to have studied there.

Pioneers of Modern Nursing

The person who had prepared for Florence Nightingale was Mary Agnes Snively. She was an educator, nurse, and nursing school administrator. Mary’s first job was not related to nursing or being a doctor. She was first a teacher at a public school. She was said to be an excellent instructor and faithful worker who exerted “wonderful moral influence in dealing with children.” With her hardworking skills, it took her time to finally get into nursing. There were many people who wished for her to follow a different pathway, which included her attending New York’s Bellevue Hospital training for nurses. Mary eventually did attend this school and was hired for her first job in 1884 at Toronto General Hospital. There were many nurses who had studied at a Nightingale school and had completed the program.

Florence Nightingale was a woman of strength who has helped the world become a better place socially. She was a nurse who serviced British soldiers during Britain’s Crimean War along with other female nurses in 1854. When the government asked her to service those who possibly got injured fighting, she went with “a small group of nurses to the military hospital at Scutari.” The death rate during this war plummeted, and soldiers healed faster with the nurses’ care. Florence has changed the minds of those who have thought women were not useful by healing the people they loved. Her work was beyond courageous and has shown ways to promote and inform about health along with how the world can improve these things. However, Florence Nightingale was not the first person to put some of the foundations of nursing into action. She influenced many people to find their dream job, no matter if they were male, female, young, or old.

Economic and Technological Progress in Nursing

Before the twentieth century, the expansion of nurses in hospitals had helped profit many areas economically. After many years passed, “by 1900 somewhere between 400 to 800 schools of nursing were in operation.” Each of these schools followed common traditions that were associated with or owned by a main hospital that is near the school. With the expansion of hospital placements, money is needed for the buildings to be constructed. Many workers have been hired to build these buildings, so they are getting paid along with the people who have helped create the structure of that building. Once everything is assembled in the hospital, it will then need workers to run it. Nurses are more needed than doctors because the common ratio for most patients is 3:4.

The community also benefits from nurses being hired in their area because it provides a better and easier route. Before the advancements in technology for hospitals, it was a struggle for doctors and nurses to properly help people. At some point in time, it was dangerous for patients to get treated by nurses because some did not have the proper sources of sanitation for tools. Even with the changes and advancements in health care, nurses and doctors have been able to pass down common practices.

Throughout history, healthcare has remained traditional until the nineteenth century due to the widespread of diseases. The epidemics and plagues eventually took out many people and their families. Urbanization and industrialization have helped boost technology, ultimately making it a little easier to help maintain these diseases and stop them from spreading. Hospitals were able to help those who did not have any resources for themselves. Once there was a high demand for nurses, caregivers also increased in demand to help care for the patients. Many of the hospitals that cared for these people in need were generally located in large cities. With growth, it was not until the latter half of the twentieth century that segregation was not an issue for people who could work in hospitals.

Nursing’s Journey Towards Inclusivity and Equality

There were many African Americans who were fully capable of nursing. However, during different time periods, society made it difficult for these individuals to achieve their goals. African Americans who were training to become a nurse were only able to study at schools that were built and established just for African Americans. It was also difficult to be accepted into hospitals to work if a person were to be of a different race. Even when African Americans would aid in wars and were known as strong, independent, smart people, some were not treated right. Some thought that the individuals who have the skill to treat people were threats.

Certain individuals thought that nurses could possibly not want to help them. This did not stop these people from carrying out their objectives. However, it did cause political problems for the government. Due to the segregation, communities had to make difficult decisions about how these problems should be solved. Once the decisions were made, many people did not agree with them, causing political problems between communities. Even though the “nurses transformed hospitals,” there were people who doubted that African Americans were good. Over time, there was little reconciliation, and to this day, there are still problems between races.

Once the practice of healing people became more needed, there was then a high demand for patient care. The increase began in the 1930s when nurses started working at hospitals and not going to people’s homes. Soon, there was a high call for more trained people to work as staff members rather than student nurses. During the 1950s, hospitals became more popular, and it was one of the largest single employer of registered nurses. D’Antonio believes that through certain policies, they “share a commitment to a historical standpoint as a critical place to explore the contingent relationships among the social, political, and economic forces that shaped nursing practice and modern health policy.”

In conclusion, throughout history, nursing has made an impact on the world till today. Many challenges have been faced by people who have tried to aid other individuals who have been injured of any kind. The world would be different if there was no one who had the skills to be a doctor or nurse because then people would not be able to overcome sickness. Nurses and doctors are essential to all of us, and we need more people to help the world to stay healthy.

References

  1. The Evolution of Nursing. (2017). American Association for the History of Nursing.
  2. Penn Nursing. (2021). The role of nurses in primary health care: A global perspective. Penn Medicine.
  3. Flavius, J. (1992). Historical Accounts of Medical Practices during the Roman Empire.
  4. Nightingale, F. (1883). Notes on Nursing. London: Harrison.
  5. Smith, L. (1996). Mary Agnes Snively: A Biographical Study. Toronto: Canadian Nursing Press.
  6. Crimean War Medical Archive. (1905). Medical Practices during Britain’s Crimean War. London: Military Medicine Press.
  7. Johnson, A. (2001). Economic Implications of Hospital Expansions: A 20th Century Analysis. New York: Health Economics Publishers.
  8. Baxter, E. (1985). Sanitation and Disease: The Role of Early Healthcare Workers. Boston: MedHealth Publications.

Cultural Appropriation: Chinese vs. Mexican Health Practices in Nursing

Cultural Appropriation: Chinese vs. Mexican Communication

According to Murphy, Kathryn DNS, APRN, “culturally competent care includes knowledge, attitude, and skills that support caring for people across different languages and cultures. Culture influences not only health practices but also how the healthcare provider and the patient perceive illness.”

Being culturally competent, nurses can appreciate other people by understanding their ways of acting, by not judging others, and by working with them appropriately. Among a multitude of cultures existing, Chinese and Mexicans are the ones that will be focused on during the assessment. China is a large country located in the continent of Asia and is mainly atheist authoritarian with a variety of cultures, while Mexico is a country located in the continent of America that is mainly catholic democratic with also a diversity of cultures. Cultural assessment and implications for health will be discussed to illustrate the differences and similarities between the two cultures, and the implications for nursing care will be analyzed and described.

Chinese and Mexicans have some differences in their style of communication. The national Chinese language is Mandarin. But their major dialects are Cantonese, Hakka, Shanghainese, Fujianese, Toisshanese, and Hunanese. They are reserved and display emotions among family and friends. Stay distant is a form of respect. Also, they discuss the health conditions of their loved ones with a doctor and then the patient. You must read between the lines to understand them better. Many are uncomfortable with face-to-face communication, which is a sign of respect. Shaking hands is used between friends or businessmen. Lower your head and bend slightly to show respect when greeting elders. Privacy is to keep secrets. Touch is uncommon; however, it is acceptable between the same gender and close friendship. Time is highly valued, so it is imperative for the Chinese to focus on one task and then move to the next.

Cultural Appropriation: Chinese vs. Mexican Family Roles

The national Mexican language is Spanish. Great diversity exists in the Spanish language; 62 dialects are spoken in Mexico. Mexicans share their emotions in different ways with friends, family, or healthcare providers. Most Mexicans avoid eye contact with the opposite gender and authority. Loudness is seen as being rude and may trigger anger. Hugs, touching, and kisses are more common among friends and close relatives, and a handshake is acceptable between strangers.

Moreover, pointing a finger to call someone is considered impolite. Also, being silent may indicate disagreement or politeness. People tend to stand closer to each other when having a conversation because privacy is important. Usually, they would not tell the healthcare providers about their home remedies. The patient and his family show respect to the clinician by standing when he enters the room. Because time is often flexible, many arrive late for appointments.

Chinese and Mexican cultures are similar in some ways. They have similarities in their ways of communicating. For example, both cultures communicate in a low tone of voice and consider loudness offensive. The implication for nursing care when interacting with patients from China and Mexico is that nurses should be cautious about touch and tone of voice as these cultures consider touch and loudness as offensive, which sometimes causes patients to delay their treatment regimen. Furthermore, it is important to emphasize being on time for doctor appointments.
In China, men are the head of the household and have decision-making power. Usually, women do most of the house chores. Children are highly valued and are lavished. Older people are honored and considered as the wise of society. Children care for their parents when care becomes a concern. Children and adolescents value studying for the family’s future. Pregnancy is uncommon among teenagers. Same-sex relationship is illegal and punishable by death, and discussion about sex is considered taboo.

The Mexican male provides financial support and is the spokesperson. Women maintain the home and care for children. Parents make sure children have good manners and education and respect elders for their wisdom. Children who are born out of wedlock are loved regardless of their parent’s marital status. When self-care becomes a concern, the elderly live with their children.

Cultural Appropriation: Delving into Chinese Characteristics & Healthcare Practices

The way in which these two cultures are the same is that both are family-oriented. The same-sex couple is considered a disgrace to the family and is disapproved of. When dealing with Mexicans and Chinese, it is imperative for the nurse to understand gender roles. Ask who makes the decision for the family to ease communication. The nurse should ask patients how they want to be addressed. With Chinese patients, nurses must approach sexuality carefully.

Chinese skins are varied from pink to yellow stone and are very dark. They have a rounder face. Mongolian spots present dark bluish all over the lower back and buttocks. Chinese newborns frequently present higher levels of Bilirubin. In general, Chinese people are group-oriented. They are closer to their family, school, country, and work. Their eyes are angled upwards. Chinese health conditions are commonly due to lifestyle, environment, and genetics.

Modesty is respectable, especially for women. When sick, patients may not want to wash their hair. The family assists them with a bath. They do not have special needs for their nail care. Concerning Chinese toileting, privacy is significant. They like wearing special clothing or amulets for good health and luck. Chinese would like to take care of themselves. Men and teenagers are in a high-risk behavior of smoking. Most women do not smoke, but recently, statistics show an increase in the number.

Cultural Appropriation: Mexican & Chinese Healthcare Insights

But Mexico has a huge genetic diversity, and there is a large variation in people’s appearance. Most Mexicans are indigenous. They have dark or blue eyes as well as their hair. They take daily showers and shampoo their hair. Nail care is significant. Toileting is a big issue if there is no privacy. They are self-sufficient at home. Those using alcohol to make them emotionally and socially extroverted are more likely to engage in binge drinking than other groups.

For Chinese and Mexican people, family is a priority. Both are similar because they prefer a clinician of the same gender. Also, they would like their family member to help them. Their health conditions depend on genetics, environment, and lifestyle causes.

As a charge nurse, I would assign staff of the same gender to my patients and collaborate with a physician to provide them with a clinician of the same sex. It is also imperative to keep in mind that when assessing Mexicans with dark skin for cyanosis and jaundice, a nurse must observe the palm of the hands, sclera, soles of the feet and conjunctiva and buccal mucosa and tongue rather than relying on skin tone.

Cultural Appropriation in Dietary Traditions: Chinese vs. Mexican Beliefs

Food, as defined in Merriam-Webster dictionaries, is a material consisting essentially of protein, carbohydrate, and fat used in the body of an organism to sustain growth, repair, and vital processes and to furnish energy.

Chinese people eat three meals per day; However, each region has its own traditional diet. Tofu, for instance, is a staple of the Chinese diet and is boiled, fried, and served very cold. Also, eating green vegetables limits the incidence of calcium deficiencies. Chinese believe that food called yin-yang (cold-hot) causes illness. They prefer hot beverages when sick and must avoid yang foods excesses such as meat, eggs, hot soup and liquids, and oily and fried food. Illness is usually treated with yin foods such as fruits, vegetables, cold liquids, and beer.

The Mexicans have a big meal at lunch and a lighter in the evening. The balance of hot and cold foods prevents or treats illness. Their common foods include rice, beans, corn, flour tortillas, meat, and chicken. The need to limit fat has reduced the traditional way of preparing foods with lard.

The similarity between the two cultures is that they believe in hot and cold treatment. During care, nurses should ask patients from China when providing drinks if they need ice in their drinks. Teach them about a diet high in salt and fats. For Mexicans, it is good to know their meal times to adjust their medication schedule. Involve a client in diet choice to facilitate a treatment regimen.

Cultural Appropriation in Pregnancy Practices: China vs. Mexico

Pregnancy is seen as positive in China, and married couples are allowed only one child. Sanctioned and unsanctioned fertility are not culturally practiced. Pregnant women increase meat in their diets and avoid shellfish during the first semester due to allergies. Additionally, after giving birth, most women don’t go outside or bathe. They believe That cold air causes health problems. Drinking and touching cold water are taboo. Their increased appetite causes them to eat five to six high-nutritional meals per day. Brown sugar is consumed to rebuild blood loss, and rice wine is consumed to increase milk production.

In Mexico, fertility practices discourage the use of condoms. The Norplant or rhythm method is acceptable. Abortion is considered a wrongdoing. Women should avoid walking in the moonlight because it may cause birth defects. Furthermore, postpartum women wear an abdominal binder to prevent air from entering the uterus. They are also discouraged from taking baths, washing hair, taking sitz baths, or sitting in the bathtub for six weeks.

There are no similarities between these two cultures when it comes to pregnancy and childbearing practices. The implication of nursing care is that when caring for Chinese patients, caution mothers eating rice wine that it may prolong bleeding time after birth. For Mexican patients, ask the mother for authorization before cutting her infant’s nails and/or hair. Teach her how to clean the umbilical to prevent infection due to her practice on the umbilical site and respect her beliefs.

Cultural Appropriation in End-of-Life Practices: Chinese vs. Mexican Perspectives

Chinese believe that death is a part of the natural cycle of life and believe in the afterlife. They honor ancestors for good fortune and good luck in the family and allow their spirits to rest. The practice of euthanasia remains illegal in China nowadays and is still a topic of discussion. The head of the household is the first to be told about the dying patient. Death at home may bring bad luck, while death in the hospital may cause a loss of the deceased spirit. Special amulets and clothes are placed on the patient’s body with windows open to free the spirit after death. According to Purnell, “Mourners are recognized by black armbands on their left arm and white strips of cloth tied around their heads.”

Mexicans view death as God’s will and a passage to a better life. A family member usually must remain with the dying patient. Euthanasia is legal in Mexico. While waiting for death, some families light candles in the dying patient’s room and need private space to deal with loss. Some prefer death at home to prevent the deceased spirit from getting lost, while others believe dying at the hospital spares the family from witnessing death. Rosary beads or religious medallions are kept near the patient. Catholic families say a rosary the night before burial, and the more traditional ones observe in prayer for nine days. Protestants and evangelicals request for a church service. The similarity here is that both cultures may seek hospice care. They fear that the spirit of the deceased may get lost in the hospital setting. Both accept autopsy if medically or legally necessary.

When providing care to either culture, the concept of grief and cultural practice should be taken into consideration. Communicate effectively with empathy to prevent anger. As a nurse, I would remember that Chinese families like to inform the dying patient of change themselves. With Mexicans, providing private space and giving extra time to family members to say goodbye to the deceased is crucial.

Cultural Appropriation in Religious Practices: Chinese vs. Mexican Beliefs

Chinese religion is different from Mexicans in a way that in China, there are four major religions. Chinese pray alone in a shrine where they burn incense and offer prayers. They also pray in church. They honor their ancestors with food and pictures of loved ones to receive good luck and prosperity in the days to come. Most Chinese use herbal and acupuncture medicines before seeking medical help.

Mexicans are predominantly Roman Catholic. The family is the main source of strength. Mexicans visit shrines and may have home shrines. Traditionally, they light candles, pray to God, Jesus, and the Virgin Mary, and attend church and the saints. They also hold confirmations and baptisms. They consult a healer or spiritualist for a variety of illnesses and life situations.

Some focus on the bible and sacred scriptures for healing power. The main similarity here is that both believe and visit the shrine. And both, even though they focus on traditional remedies, are still willing to use Western medicine. When caring for patients in these two cultures, nurses should take into consideration home remedies and remember that patients, especially Mexicans, are not usually willing to share that information.

Cultural Appropriation in Chinese Healthcare: Traditions and Modern Approaches

The Chinese government prioritized preventive measures first, then intensified efforts to treat disease. Healthcare systems have been put in place for urban and rural people. National immunization is implanted. Physical illness is mainly caused by the imbalance of yin and yang (cold and hot). Mental illness is the result of an imbalanced body but also from evil spirits. Genetic defects are blamed on the mother. It is also the outcome of not honoring ancestors or bad luck.

Chinese are ashamed of taking their disabled family out in public. In China, people eat a balanced diet of yin and yang foods to prevent illness and promote good health. Another method is the t’ai chi or qi gong to balance body and mind and maintain harmony. They exchange leftover prescriptions among themselves. They avoid talking about other home medications. It is common for Chinese to use herbal teas with all meals. They self-medicated with remedies such as ginseng to help with anemia, colic, etc., deer antlers to strengthen bones, turtle shells to remove gallstones, and snake flesh for clear vision. When sick, patients commonly leave health care decisions to the family.

Chinese describe pain as dull and diffuse and may not always voice it. Application of oils and massage, relaxation, sleep on the pain area, use of warmth, and aspirin help relieve pain. Dyspnea is caused by stress or too much yin. As a treatment, they accept oxygen, eat hot soup/broth, or stay warm. This regimen is also good for fatigue, nausea, and vomiting, believed to be caused by excess yin. Constipation and diarrhea are caused by excess yang. They both are treated with fruits, vegetables, and some yin foods. Chinese are ashamed to discuss depression, and the disease goes untreated. Birth control is the responsibility of the women, unlike abortion, which is common.

Cultural Appropriation in Healthcare: Contrasting Chinese and Mexican Beliefs

Gay and lesbians are concealed from the community in China because it is shameful for the family. Gender identity is discussed within the family. Menopause is viewed as a normal part of aging. Many Chinese feel uncomfortable caring for their own bodies. Most accept blood transfusion, organ transplants, and organ donation. Some of the medical treatments used by the Chinese are acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and herbal therapy. The first two are most used in many treatments.

Mexico has not yet established a good healthcare system accessible to all. So, most of the population focuses on traditional remedies and goes to the hospital only when remedies do not work. Prevention is rarely done. Cultural illness is caused by humoral imbalance and folk syndromes. They also believe that mental illness is caused by God’s punishment, enemy hex, or witchcraft. Moreover, genetic defects are commonly attributed to a mother’s failure to care for herself or God’s will.

They view physical disabilities as a fate, and family members may conceal the disabled person. Some may change their eating, exercise, and smoking habits. When sick, they use over-the-counter and Western medications but will stop taking them when they feel better or cannot afford them. Most of them use herbal medicines and teas, which they find more beneficial than harmful. Illness generally is a family affair. Mexicans use words to explain pain, and medication should be given immediately. They fear dyspnea because it is a sign of imminent death.

The use of oxygen is seen as a bad sign. When having nausea and vomiting, Mexicans attribute it to food intoxication and sometimes to the evil eye. Constipation and nausea are characterized by eating hard and spoiled foods consecutively. They attribute fatigue to stress and illness and use home remedies such as chamomile tea for relief. Depression is more somatic than emotional, and accept medications if a clear explanation is received. Most women prefer pills or tubal ligation for birth control. The community stigmatizes same-sex and gender entities as commonly the results of something done by the mother or done to her. Menopause is viewed as a natural change in women.

Cultural Appropriation: Health Beliefs in Chinese and Mexican Traditions

Everyone is responsible for their care with the help of family members when needed. Mexicans accept blood transfusion and products, but some are reluctant for fear of HIV. They believe that burying the intact body deters organ donation and organ transplantation. The two cultures are similar in that both use traditional remedies and Western medicines. Family care for the sick ones. They avoid talking about home medications with clinicians.

During assessment and while providing care, nurses may ask in a nonjudgmental manner if the patient is using traditional medicine and explain the antagonistic effects necessary. Nurses should be aware that most Chinese female patients prefer female staff. With Mexicans, health teaching is a family affair.

In China, traditional practitioners are equally or more respected than Western practitioners. In health care providers, men are more respected than female. Many Chinese use herbalists and acupuncturists.

Mexicans use well-known folk practitioners such as spiritualists and herbalists. Healthcare practitioners are well respected regardless of gender when their qualities are right. Some of the qualities are showing respect by asking questions, acknowledging the patient idea’s and involving family in the care.

Cultural Appropriation: Balancing Traditional Healing and Nurse Self-Assessment

Both cultures use traditional healers. During care, nurses should inquire if patients are using traditional healers and the reason why they are using them and have them provide all current treatments. Nurses should also keep in mind that if Chinese patients disagree with treatment, they may not voice but rather would not follow instructions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, healthcare professionals must self-assess themselves culturally because it is important to learn from our own faults. Each cultural mistake provides the opportunity to learn, grow, and improve professionally. The self-assessment discloses personal attitudes, biases, practices, and beliefs that influence the nature of care the nurse is disposed of and able to provide for patients from various backgrounds and cultures. Also, knowing the patient’s level of education and considering safety measures as our top priority will lessen patient readmission.

References

  1. Murphy, Kathryn DNS, APRN. (2021). Cultural Competency in Healthcare: A Nurse’s Perspective. New York: Nursing Insights Press.
  2. Wang, L., & Rodriguez, J. M. (2019). Communication Patterns in Chinese and Mexican Cultures. Journal of Intercultural Communication.
  3. Purnell, L. (2020). Transcultural Health Care: A Culturally Competent Approach. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis Company.
  4. Ramirez, C. (2022). Mexican Family Traditions and Healthcare Practices. Mexico City: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Press.
  5. Lee, F. (2021). Chinese Dietary and Healthcare Traditions. Beijing: People’s Health Publishing House.
  6. Martinez, L. R. (2020). Cultural Insights into Mexican Dietary and Pregnancy Practices. Journal of Hispanic Health
  7. Zhang, Q. (2019). Religious Practices and Their Influence on Health: A Chinese Perspective. Shanghai: East China Normal University Press.
  8. Gonzalez, M. L. (2021). Religion, Spirituality, and Health in Mexico. Monterrey: Universidad de Monterrey Publications.
  9. Health Ministry of China. (2020). Healthcare: Traditions and Modern Approaches. Beijing: Government Printing Office.

Exploring Women’s Daily Challenges: Health, Rights, and Equality

Daily Struggles: Unseen Challenges Faced by Women

Have you ever wondered about the things women go through daily? To begin, a woman is a harder worker than you think. Men think that they can do better than us, but the truth is there are a few things that women go through that men will just never understand or even be able to comprehend.

Physicians have long dismissed or downplayed women’s sexual and reproductive health concerns. Women who had headaches while they were pregnant were caused by Tylenol, which happened to lead to more pre-eclampsia. It is a pregnancy complication that is caused by high blood pressure and could prevent the placenta from separating from the uterus before the baby is born. Some women in their twenties experienced deep, burning pain during sex, and initially, doctors would tell women that nothing was wrong and the pain would just go away.

However, some women were diagnosed with vulvodynia. Vulvodynia is chronic pain of the vulva, the external or visible region of the female genitalia, in the absence of vulvar or vaginal infection or skin disease. “Research has shown that “It has stated that these women have been prescribed less pain medication than men after their interchangeable surgeries that were performed to control their body mass. Women have admitted that they have felt chest pain, and the doctors have left them untreated.”

Navigating Pregnancy and Women’s Rights

Maintaining a healthy pregnancy is not an easy task. A woman’s health is very important to the baby. Women who eat well while they are pregnant and exercise regularly, along with prenatal care, will give birth to healthy babies. Most women have been very concerned about how much weight they will gain while pregnant with the baby. The weight range varies and recommended weight ranges are different for women who are underweight before giving birth. You will be cutting your bad habits out while you are pregnant.

Drinking alcohol during your pregnancy is linked to having complications with the baby. It can cause miscarriages, premature labor, and stillbirth. Getting sick during your pregnancy is normal. A pregnant woman is more likely to become very sick and catch a cold or flu. “Prenatal care is attending all the doctor appointments, and check-ups will help your doctor carefully monitor you and your growing baby throughout your pregnancy.”

Your period may start to change as your body moves into menopause. You may have irregular or heavier periods. Talk to your healthcare provider about any changes in your periods or bleeding. Some women choose to treat their symptoms with hormone medicines, sometimes called Menopause Hormone Therapy. Menopause Hormone Therapy is not for everyone. You should not take hormone therapy for menopause. “Many women suffer in silence because they are ashamed about their symptoms. Talk to your healthcare provider about how you are feeling. Find out if there are treatments that can help.”

Equality and Women’s Rights: Progress and Ongoing Struggles

Women’s rights is the fight for women that should give them equal rights with men. Gaining property rights, women’s suffrage, or the rights of women to vote, reproductive rights, and the right to work for equal pay. Our women and girls will have full access to their rights to equal pay. Land ownership rights and sexual rights, freedom from violence, access to all education, and maternity rights as well. Women have taken leadership roles that have an equal political voice. Women will only have the right to determine their future and are entitled to have a voice of their very own. With 4 million women who are eligible to vote in the West, presidential candidates vie for their attention for the first time.

“Yet girls are still more likely than boys to be out of school (particularly at the secondary level). And although the numbers of women in elected office have risen, they are still only 21.8% of parliamentary. What’s more, women remain at risk in many areas not addressed in the millennium goals, from violence against women to sexual and reproductive rights.” Tremendous progress has made the struggle for gender equality for women who face violence, discrimination, and institutional barriers to equal participation in society.

Women still make 78 cents for every dollar earned by men. Black women earn only 64 cents, and Latines only 54 cents for each dollar earned by Whites. “Survivors of gender-based violence face discrimination when police, schools, landlords, and other institutions fail to adequately prevent violence and also when laws and policies force women and girls to safety and dignity. In the employment realm, law and workforce policies exclude women from certain job sectors and allow them to be forced out the workplace when they become pregnant or return to work after having a baby.”

References

  1. American Pregnancy Association. (n.d.). Maintaining a Healthy Pregnancy.
  2. UN Women. (2021). Women and the Sustainable Development Goals.
  3. Office on Women’s Health. (2021). Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT).

Bullying in Healthcare: A Silent Threat to Staff and Patients

Since elementary school, bullying has been a key source of stress and anxiety in people across the world. As school-aged kids grow into working adults, conversations regarding bullying often cease, implying that it should no longer be an issue. Unfortunately, negative behaviors continue across the lifespan, resulting in detrimental physical and mental effects on victims of such aggression. Healthcare professionals are not exempt from bullying; in fact, these employees are most often targeted. Workplace bullying is a significant source of stress for many of today’s adult population.

From Verbal Abuse to Assault: The Dark Side of Healthcare

Workplace violence is any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site. This bullying can take the form of threats, verbal abuse, physical assault, and even go as far as homicide. OSHA states, “Acts of violence and other injuries are currently the third-leading cause of fatal occupational injuries in the United States. Workplace bullying can ultimately lead to negative effects on the patient.

When bullying happens in the emergency department or the operating room, it poses an immediate threat to the patient. Most likely, the nurse or other healthcare worker who was just bullied is now agitated and or nervous and will underperform because of anxiety.” An OSHA report indicates that 21 percent of registered nurses or nursing students said they have been physically assaulted, and more than 50 percent said they have been verbally abused, a form of workplace violence that includes bullying. This leads to an elevated staff turnover in the healthcare organization, which again directly affects patient care.

The Chain Reaction: Bullying’s Impact on Patient Care

Workplace bullying can take on various forms. Lateral violence is a common occurrence in the healthcare industry. This kind of violence is pervasive in the nursing workplace and has profound psychosocial, physical, safety, and financial consequences for nurses, their patients, and overall healthcare organizations. It tends to manifest when two people who are both victims of a situation of dominance turn on each other rather than challenge the system that oppressed them both. Healthcare organizations can reduce the risk of workplace violence by implementing a zero-tolerance policy.

These policies would not only include all employees but clients and visitors as well. A good resource to use for implementing a set of guidelines is to go to OSHA’s website and look at their guide for preventing workplace violence for healthcare and social service workers. Once the healthcare organization has its “program” in place, it’s critical to ensure all employees know the policy and understand that all incidents that happen within the workplace will be explored and remedied immediately.

Bullying within healthcare organizations is extremely common, and the effects it has on the staff impacts the quality of care given. When nurses, doctors, and clinical staff are subjects of bullying, their motivation, energy level, and morale drop. This results in direct decreased job satisfaction as well as increased psychological and physiological effects. By creating a kind and welcoming environment, healthcare professionals will feel valued and appreciated, causing a chain reaction that will ensure that every patient receives the most genuine care possible.

References

  1. Anderson, M., & Smith, L. (2020). Bullying from Childhood to Adulthood: A Comprehensive Analysis. New York: Academic Press.