Culture Awareness With End-of-Life Issues: Death, Dying, and Bereavement - Admission/Application Essay Example

Culture awareness with End-of-Life Issues: Death, Dying, and Bereavement Culture awareness with End-of-Life Issues: Death, Dying, and Bereavement among GypsiesIntroduction Difference cultures have different beliefs about death and Bereavement. The beliefs of Gypsy culture that affect their health and the healthcare system have been described. Description of Culture Gypsies are among the minority groups. Most of them still practice their cultural beliefs. Some are influenced by their religious teachings.

Most of them are Catholics. Many Gypsies in the US just like other minority groups face financial constraints and health issues (Timmins, 2012).Normal Health Beliefs and Practices Gypsies still believe in strong family ties. Family members play a great part in influencing health decisions of a patient. They are expected to pamper a sick person. End-of-life decisions are also influenced by their cultural beliefs.Grief and Support System When a person dies or becomes sick, family and friends usually gather to support each other.

They also offer their support materially. They believe that such support helps family members to heal emotionally (Gochman, 1988)Family Member’s Roles during Death and Dying Family members are usually involved in caring for dying people. Women play a great part in caring for dying individuals excepts when they are pregnant. Males are rarely involved, but they still give emotional support. Rituals or Traditions During and After Death Many Gypsies involve spiritual leaders in caring for a dying person.

Gypsies play a great role in funeral plans. Funeral services include mass where friends express grief.Cultural Issues Faced in Healthcare Systems Cultural issues affect healthcare outcomes. Faith and church play a great part in influencing healthcare system. Some of the beliefs reduce compliance to medical recommendations. In addition, some seek medical advice when it is too late because they have to use home remedies and prayers first (Cohn, 1973)Nurses Roles in Honoring Cultural Differences Nurses have to ensure they incorporate cultural beliefs among the gypsies in care systems to ensure compliance to treatment.

The processes increases trust between nurses and patients. They should also allow family members to give support to dying persons.Conclusion Several cultural beliefs among Gypsies affect healthcare system because they reduce compliance to treatment. It is important for nurses to learn people’s cultural practices in order to effectively involve them in the healthcare systems.ReferencesTop of FormCohn, W. (1973). The gypsies. Reading, Mass. Top of FormGochman, D. S. (1988). Health behavior: Emerging research perspectives.

New York: Plenum Press. Top of FormTimmins, S. (2012). My Health, My Faith, My Culture: A guide for healthcare practitioners. Keswick: M & K Update Ltd. Bottom of FormBottom of FormBottom of Form