Applying Cultural Competence to Perianesthesia Nursing

The paper stresses the importance of cultural competence in perianesthesia nursing, both in terms of caring for the patient and in dealing with the patient’s family. Cultural variations in gender, decision-making, family, communication, and time orientation are presented. A distinction is made between generalizations (potentially useful) and stereotypes (potentially harmful). Several suggestions for specific ways to provide more culturally appropriate care are presented, and resources for further study are provided.