Question

Being culturally competent and culturally sensitive is important in nursing because it
allows nurses to better understand and relate to the cultures and backgrounds of their patients.
Cultural competency is the ability to understand, appreciate, and respect different cultures'
beliefs, values, and practices (Gradellini et al., 2021). Nurses need to understand different
cultures, as this helps them provide culturally appropriate care. Cultural sensitivity is the ability
to recognize and appreciate the cultural differences of others and to be cognizant of the impact
that cultural differences may have on the healthcare experience (Gradellini et al., 2021). Being
culturally sensitive helps nurses create a positive environment where patients feel safe

Answer

Cultural Health Disparities

Part 1

Being culturally competent and culturally sensitive is important in nursing because it allows nurses to better understand and relate to the cultures and backgrounds of their patients. Cultural competency is the ability to understand, appreciate, and respect different cultures' beliefs, values, and practices (Gradellini et al., 2021). Nurses need to understand different cultures, as this helps them provide culturally appropriate care. Cultural sensitivity is the ability to recognize and appreciate the cultural differences of others and to be cognizant of the impact that cultural differences may have on the healthcare experience (Gradellini et al., 2021). Being culturally sensitive helps nurses create a positive environment where patients feel safe and respected.

Part 2

Healthcare disparities refer to differences in access to healthcare or outcomes based on race, ethnicity, or gender. Black Americans have experienced a long history of healthcare disparities and are more likely to experience poorer health outcomes than the general population (Stubbe, 2020). Black Americans are more likely to experience disparities in access to healthcare and health outcomes, including higher maternal mortality rates, infant mortality, and cardiovascular disease (Stubbe, 2020). They also experience lower rates of preventative services and are more likely to experience disparities in quality of care, such as longer wait times.

To provide culturally competent care for Black Americans, nurses should strive to understand the unique healthcare challenges faced by this population. This can include understanding the historical context of racism in healthcare and its impact on the Black American community (Taylor, 2019). Nurses should also be aware of the unique challenges faced by Black Americans in terms of access to healthcare and health outcomes. Additionally, nurses should be aware of Black Americans' unique cultural and religious beliefs and strive to understand how these beliefs may impact their healthcare experiences (Taylor, 2019). Nurses should also seek to build relationships with Black American patients, as this can help to create a trusting and supportive environment in which the patient feels comfortable.