Purpose: The Course Outcome Covered This Week Is Co1co1 Iden

Purposethe Course Outcome Covered This Week Is Co1co1 Identify Theor

The assignment requires selecting an illness or condition affecting a specific ethnic group, particularly one discussed in the context of transcultural nursing. The focus is on identifying two complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies that patients might use either before or alongside conventional medical treatments. The discussion should include an evaluation of the effectiveness of each identified CAM therapy, incorporating relevant cultural, patient-centered, and evidence-based perspectives. Additionally, the assignment emphasizes avoiding repetition by selecting a different illness or condition than that chosen by classmates, thus promoting diversity in discussion and understanding of CAM practices across various populations. The purpose aligns with course outcome CO1, which involves understanding theories, concepts, and beliefs related to transcultural nursing and the role of CAM in health behaviors among different ethnic groups.

Paper For Above instruction

In the realm of transcultural nursing, understanding how different ethnic groups engage with alternative health practices is essential for providing culturally competent care. An illustrative example is Type 2 diabetes mellitus among the Hispanic community, a prevalent condition often intertwined with cultural health beliefs and practices (Andrews & Boyle, 2016). This paper aims to explore two CAM therapies that individuals within this community are likely to pursue before or alongside conventional treatments and evaluate their effectiveness based on current evidence.

Firstly, herbal remedies are commonly used in Hispanic populations to manage blood sugar levels. One prominent example is the use of "mal de ojo" herbs or traditional infusions, which may include plants like prickly pear cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica). Prickly pear, in particular, has garnered scientific interest due to its hypoglycemic properties. Studies have demonstrated that ingesting prickly pear can modestly reduce fasting blood glucose and improve insulin sensitivity (Cárdenas et al., 2020). Its widespread acceptance is rooted in cultural traditions, peer influence, and perceived safety. Patients often self-administer these herbal remedies based on familial knowledge or community recommendations, sometimes delaying or supplementing formal medical treatments. The effectiveness of prickly pear varies among individuals, but research indicates it may serve as a complementary therapy within an integrated management plan for diabetes.

Secondly, traditional holistic practices such as spiritual healing, prayer, and the use of herbal teas with medicinal properties are integral to the health beliefs of many Hispanic individuals. Spirituality plays a vital role, and prayer is often used to seek divine intervention for health issues, including diabetes. While spiritual practices do not directly impact blood glucose levels, they contribute to psychological well-being, which can influence disease management positively (Palos et al., 2013). Use of herbal teas, such as those incorporating cinnamon or chamomile, is popular for purported blood sugar regulation, although scientific evidence regarding their efficacy remains mixed. The psychosocial benefits of prayer and spiritual reliance can enhance patient resilience and adherence to treatment regimens, ultimately impacting overall health outcomes.

The effectiveness of these CAM therapies hinges on the individual, cultural context, and integration with conventional care. Studies on prickly pear indicate that it has potential hypoglycemic effects, but it should not replace standard diabetes management, including diet, exercise, and medications (Cárdenas et al., 2020). Similarly, spiritual practices support emotional health but should complement, not substitute, medical treatment to optimize glycemic control (Palos et al., 2013). Healthcare professionals must recognize these cultural practices and work collaboratively with patients to incorporate safe, evidence-based CAM therapies into comprehensive care plans, respecting cultural beliefs and promoting health equity.

References

• Andrews, M. M., & Boyle, J. S. (2016). Transcultural concepts in nursing care (7th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Wolters Kluwer.
• Cárdenas, A., García, N., & López, R. (2020). Hypoglycemic effects of prickly pear cactus in diabetic patients: A systematic review. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 250, 112465.
• Palos, G., et al. (2013). Spirituality and diabetes management: A review of current research. Nursing Research and Practice, 2013, 419242.
• American Psychological Association. (2010). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (6th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.