Towards a Culturally Inclusive Model of Care: Quality Practice and Care Through the Lens of a Practising Nurse

Abstract

When a nurse cares for a patient there is a set of expectations which must be met; not only for the management of health needs, but also to address interpersonal and social needs. Every person is different. Their values and belief systems and the cultural practices they follow, impact on how they like nursing care to be appropriated. The individual nurse varies in how they manage their patient’s care. They may not necessarily perceive or accommodate differences within and amongst people for whom they are caring. Locally, Australian indigenous nurses, Aborigines, have been under-represented in the nursing workforce and recognition of Aboriginal patients’ cultural needs have been surpassed by dominant Western culture. This is despite national health policy evolving, aimed at raising awareness of traditional owners’ beliefs and values. This chapter is a reflection on a practicing nurse’s experiences in delivering scientifically-sound care amid patients’ needs and best interests.