Cultural and Language Considerations

1. Mr. Zhang, a 64-year-old patient who recently immigrated from China, is admitted for pneumonia. He understands only a few words of English. When the LPN attempts to explain the importance of deep breathing exercises, the patient looks confused and nods without apparent understanding. His daughter, who speaks English, offers to translate. What should the LPN do to ensure effective communication? *
2. Mrs. Ahmed, age 52, is hospitalized for an infected wound on her leg. She refuses the prescribed antibiotic, explaining through her son that she believes applying herbal paste made by her sister will heal the wound faster. The LPN respects her belief but must also ensure proper treatment. What is the most appropriate nursing action? *
3. A 28-year-old woman from a conservative cultural background is admitted for gallbladder surgery. When the male LPN enters to perform preoperative hygiene care, she looks uncomfortable and avoids eye contact. Her husband explains that her culture forbids physical contact with men who are not family members. What is the most appropriate response by the LPN? *
4. Mr. Patel, a 45-year-old man of Hindu faith, is hospitalized for kidney stones. At lunchtime, he declines his meal and tells the LPN he is fasting for a religious observance. His medication is due with food, and he seems hesitant to explain further. What should the LPN do first? *
5. An Indigenous elder, Mrs. Cardinal, age 70, is admitted for diabetes complications. During assessment, she speaks softly and avoids direct eye contact. The LPN notices her adult daughter placing a small pouch of herbs beside the bed. The daughter explains it is for spiritual protection. What is the best response from the LPN? *
6. Mrs. Santos, a 73-year-old woman who recently immigrated from the Philippines, is being discharged after heart failure management. The LPN provides teaching about her new medications, but Mrs. Santos only smiles and nods. Her son, who speaks limited English, says “She understands.” The LPN suspects otherwise because Mrs. Santos appears confused while looking at the medication labels. What should the LPN do next? *
7. Mr. Cohen, a 56-year-old Jewish patient, is admitted for a hernia repair. At lunchtime, he refuses the meat dish, saying it is not kosher. The dietary aide becomes frustrated and tells the LPN, “He’s just being difficult!” What should the LPN do? *
8. A 35-year-old patient from Japan, admitted for appendicitis, smiles and nods while the LPN reviews his pain scale and mobility plan. Later, the RN notes that he has not walked or requested any pain medication. The LPN realizes he may not have understood the instructions. What should the LPN do to clarify communication? *
9. A 40-year-old male patient from the Middle East is admitted for abdominal pain. When a female LPN arrives to insert an IV line, the patient looks away and says, “I want a male nurse.” The unit is short-staffed, and only female LPNs are available at the moment. What should the LPN do first? *
10. Mrs. Nguyen, a 62-year-old Vietnamese woman, is admitted for hypertension. During her assessment, the LPN notices that she avoids eye contact and keeps her hands folded. The nurse interprets this as anxiety and tries to reassure her, but Mrs. Nguyen remains silent. Later, her daughter explains that in their culture, avoiding direct eye contact shows respect. What should the LPN do to improve communication? *