The charge nurse in the telemetry unit has delegated the task of giving a bed bath to a male Arab client who practices traditional Islamic customs. Which communication to the female nursing assistant demonstrates appropriate cultural sensitivity to this client?
A)"Ask the client's wife if she would like to give the bed bath."
B)"Do not make eye contact with the client during the bath."
C)"The client may prefer for you not to talk to him during the bath."
D)"Touching the head is a sign of disrespect; let the client wash his own face."

Question

The charge nurse in the telemetry unit has delegated the task of giving a bed bath to a male Arab client who practices traditional Islamic customs.  Which communication to the female nursing assistant demonstrates appropriate cultural sensitivity to this client?
A)"Ask the client's wife if she would like to give the bed bath."
B)"Do not make eye contact with the client during the bath."
C)"The client may prefer for you not to talk to him during the bath."
D)"Touching the head is a sign of disrespect; let the client wash his own face."

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To provide culturally competent care, it is important for the nurse to realize that in many Arab cultures, a man is not allowed to be alone with a woman other than his wife. It may also be inappropriate for a female health care worker to physically care for him; however, in some instances, direct physical care from the opposite sex is allowed if a third party is present. (Option B) Eye contact varies greatly among cultural groups. Some cultures (eg, Arab, Asian, Native American) view eye contact as a sign of disrespect or aggressiveness. This could be a concern with this client, but it is not as high a priority as respecting the client's cultural beliefs of not being alone in the same room with a member of the opposite sex. (Option C) Some cultures (eg, Native American, Asian) are comfortable with silence and see it as a sign of respect, privacy, or respect for elders. (Option D) In some Asian and Hispanic cultures, the head is thought to be the basis of one's strength or soul, and touching a person's head is considered disrespectful. Educational objective: The nurse should be aware that in many Arab cultures a man is not allowed to be alone with a woman other than his wife. In addition, cultural customs may not allow physical care by a member of the opposite sex. The nurse needs to plan accordingly to provide culturally sensitive care.

The Charge Nurse in the Telemetry Unit Has Delegated the Task