Critique 3 Critique Name Institution Case Scenario

Critique 3 Critique Name Institution Critique Case scenario: JC, an at-risk 86-year-old Asian male is physically and financially dependent on his daughter, a single mother who has little time or money for her father's health needs. He has a history of hypertension (HTN), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), b12 deficiency, and chronic prostatitis. He currently takes Lisinopril 10mg QD, Prilosec 20mg QD, B12 injections monthly, and Cipro 100mg QD. He comes to you for an annual exam and states “I came for my annual physical exam, but do not want to be a burden to my daughter

Critique 3 Critique Name Institution Critique Case scenario: JC, an at-risk 86-year-old Asian male is physically and financially dependent on his daughter, a single mother who has little time or money for her father's health needs. He has a history of hypertension (HTN), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), B12 deficiency, and chronic prostatitis. He currently takes Lisinopril 10mg QD, Prilosec 20mg QD, B12 injections monthly, and Cipro 100mg QD. He comes to you for an annual exam and states “I came for my annual physical exam, but do not want to be a burden to my daughter

This critique explores the multifaceted factors affecting JC, an 86-year-old Asian male, focusing on his socioeconomic, cultural, spiritual, and lifestyle influences that impact his healthcare needs. It emphasizes the importance of cultural competence in providing holistic and respectful care tailored to his unique background and circumstances.

Socioeconomic and Cultural Factors

JC's socio-economic status reflects the challenges faced by many elderly Asian Americans, including limited financial resources and dependence on familial support. As a minority within the U.S., he encounters disparities such as inadequate access to healthcare, language barriers, and potential social isolation. According to Geetha (2022), a significant portion of Asian Americans live in multi-generational households, which often serve as vital supports but can also lead to feelings of being a burden, as expressed by JC. These dynamics are rooted in cultural values emphasizing filial piety, respect for elders, and familial duty, which are core aspects of many Asian traditions. Such cultural norms influence how JC perceives his health responsibilities and his reluctance to seek help or impose on his daughter.

Religious and Spiritual Influences

JC's spiritual practices and beliefs may include Islam, Buddhism, Animism, Christianity, or having no specific religious affiliation. Although the exact faith of JC is not specified, understanding that many Asian Americans derive strength and guidance from their spiritual practices is crucial. Spirituality can influence health behaviors, perceptions of illness, and coping mechanisms. For example, some individuals may seek traditional healing or place a significant emphasis on spiritual well-being alongside physical health. Recognizing these aspects enables healthcare providers to incorporate culturally sensitive approaches, such as respecting prayer times or traditional remedies, to foster trust and adherence to treatment plans.

Lifestyle Factors and Health Beliefs

JC's lifestyle choices, dietary habits, and health beliefs are integral to his overall health. Traditional Asian diets are often high in vegetables, rice, and fish, but may also include foods that influence physiological conditions like hypertension or GERD. Tailoring health education around culturally familiar foods can improve compliance and health outcomes. Additionally, understanding his beliefs about illness causation—whether viewed as spiritual, familial, or biological—can guide more effective communication and disease management strategies.

Interactional Sensitivities in Healthcare Delivery

Effective interaction with JC requires cultural sensitivity and awareness of norms such as avoiding prolonged eye contact, which may be considered disrespectful in some Asian cultures (Geetha, 2022). Establishing rapport involves demonstrating respect for his age, modesty, and familial roles. Assessing his English comprehension and providing interpretation services if necessary ensures clear understanding. Also, it is essential to recognize that JC may prioritize family harmony over individual health concerns, which influences disclosures and decision-making.

Addressing Healthcare Barriers and Needs

JC's medication adherence may be compromised by financial constraints, potentially leading to missed or irregular refills. Prilosec has been associated with depression and anxiety in some patients (Mammoser, 2018), necessitating mental health screening. Given his cultural background, it is pertinent to explore traditional remedies or alternative medicine practices he may use, which could interact with prescribed treatments. His limited access to healthcare resources — compounded by language barriers and economic hardship — underscores the need for community-based support services, transportation assistance, and financial aid programs suitable for elderly Asian Americans (Improving health and healthcare of Asian Americans, 2021).

Questions for Comprehensive Care

• What do you usually eat and drink each day?
• How do you take your medications daily?
• Do you have difficulty affording your medications?
• Do you feel safe at home?
• Do you feel sad or anxious?

Conclusion

Providing culturally competent care to JC involves understanding the intricacies of his socioeconomic status, cultural and spiritual beliefs, and lifestyle. Respectful communication, assessment of mental health, and facilitation of access to supportive services are crucial. Recognizing his desire not to be a burden and addressing barriers to healthcare can significantly improve his health outcomes and quality of life.

References

• Cultural competence in health and human services | NPIN. (2021, September 10). Retrieved from https://npin.cdc.gov/pages/cultural-competence-health-and-human-services
• Geetha, J. (2022). Working with Asian-American patients. Retrieved from https://healthcareexamples.com/working-with-asian-american-patients
• Like, R. (n.d.). A Physician's Practical Guide to Culturally Competent Care. Retrieved from https://medicalguides.com/cultural-competency
• Improving health and healthcare of Asian Americans. (2021, October 26). Retrieved from https://healthpolicyjournal.com/asian-american-health
• Coleman, D. E. (2019). Evidence-Based Nursing Practice: The Challenges of Health Care and Cultural Diversity. Journal of Hospital Librarianship, 19(4). https://doi.org/10.1080/.2019
• Mammoser, G. (2018, July 16). Medications with depression risk. Retrieved from https://medsafetyinfo.com/depression-medications