Joyce Newman Giger, Ed. St. Louis T his is a definitive reference for the nurse working with clients from varied cultural backgrounds. The book's introductory chapters provide a useful framework for understanding cultures that are different from one's own. The provision of culturally appropriate care is the responsibility of every nurse. It is shaped by values, beliefs, norms and practices shared by members of the culture.
Culture is the expression of the self and is passed from generation to generation.
The nurse must assess culture as a routine part of the nursing assessment. The authors present a model for such a cultural assessment . Skin color, body structure, genetic and enzymatic patterns, nutritional preferences and deficiencies. Health practices, values, definitions of health and illness. T he authors expand the assessment elements to assist the nurse in understanding the uniqueness of the individual client's cultural orientation.