Managing Care in a Culturally Considerate Manner
Managing Care in a Culturally Considerate Manner
Managing Care in a Culturally Considerate Manner
Patient Profile
R.M., a 68-year-old male from Fiji, came into the emergency department with complaints of increased headache, dizziness, and blurred vision. His blood pressure in the emergency room was 201/120. He received IV labetalol (Normodyne) and IV furosemide (Lasix) and was admitted to the cardiac unit for observation.
Subjective Data
- States “I don’t feel well, but I don’t want all this medicine. I heard that garlic could help my high blood pressure and make it all better.”
- Asks “I want all of my family with me in my room-can’t my family all come in?”
- Wife is at bedside; several family members are in the hall.
Objective Data
Physical Examination
- Temperature: 98.3°F; respirations: 22; pulse: 88; blood pressure: 210/120
- Oxygen saturation: 95% on room air
- Height 5’10”, 198 lb
- The remainder of physical exam unremarkable
Diagnostic Studies
- ECG reveals left ventricular hypertrophy
- Chest x-ray shows cardiomegaly
- What further cultural assessment would you obtain?
- How would you address his statement about the use of garlic?
- While attempting to draw R.M.’s lab work, two children, his sister, several grandchildren, nieces, and nephews were all asking for information. Culturally speaking, list three ways to de-escalate the situation?
- How would you respond to the patient’s request to have all of his family in the room?
