Topic > Cultural competence in healthcare: a necessity - 724

L. and his family are experiencing the dying process and the last days of his illness (Matzo & Sherman, 2015). Asian culture values ​​collectivism, or putting the needs of the family and community before the needs of the individual (Hays & Erford, 2014). This appears to be the case for Mr. L. Although Mr. L. is weak and has difficulty eating, when asked how he feels, he reports feeling well. Furthermore, Chinese culture believes that sadness and grief are kept private because a person's dying thoughts influence end-of-life behavior, ultimately determining the cycle of life, death, and rebirth (Matzo & Sherman, 2015). Mr. L. demonstrates these values ​​by keeping his emotions private and does not complain of pain or discomfort. Mr. L. was not told his diagnosis nor his prognosis. In Asian cultures, dying patients are not told of their terminal illness because discussing the end of life can lead to desperation. Furthermore, in Chinese culture, the older male is responsible for decision making (Matzo and Sherman). Since Mr. L. can no longer make decisions, the eldest son would be responsible for deciding family matters. Furthermore, there appears to be an element of secrecy and lack of communication between the eldest child, the mother and the younger child. The eldest son and mother continue to encourage Mr. L. to eat when it causes aspiration. The younger son,