Cultural Care Theory Summary

With the influx of immigrants with diverse cultural background into the country, it is crucial that the nurse is aware of the dynamics of the patient population and plan and implement caring practices that are culturally appropriate. The addition of a patient’s worldview to their treatment enhance the holistic approach that nursing embraces. The role of culture in the delivery of care is vital and more prominent as we care for a very diverse population. As covered during the concept of postmodernism, culture, and politics are influential contextual factors. According to Reed (2017), “postmodernism opens up new possibilities in viewing reality…in recognizing the role of culture, power, politics and other factors in science.”

As future DNP, this writer would develop the spirit of experimentation, challenging the status quo, and be open-minded to new research findings and incorporate them into practice. The postmodernism

The theory suggests that “nurses are capable of being models for embracing patients’ cultural needs in healthcare, and as a result, it is of high priority that nursing professional recognize and understand…” (Betancourt, 2015, p.1). The goal is for the nurse to be culturally aware and competent of incorporating the patient’s beliefs into care. According to Leininger (2001), understanding the client’s cultural belief and integrating it into care practices do support not only healing and wellness but also improve compliance. Leininger’s theory of Cultural Care: Diversity and Universality is an integral part of nursing practice today. Applying the transcultural theory to practice allow nurses to incorporate the client’s cultural beliefs, values and practices into the nurse’s care plan, which improves treatment outcomes. A culturally competent nurse should be able to assess the client’s needs based on beliefs and values and consequently make adjustments to accommodate their