Final Reflection

I have learned so much this semester about different cultures, which will be incredibly beneficial for heading into my future health care career of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. The first goal I achieved was getting a better understanding of different cultures. This class taught me so much about so many different cultures and ethnic groups: African Americans, Asian Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics, and Caucasians, just to name a few. The second goal I achieved was being able to look past biases in order to give the best care as possible. At the beginning of The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down, I was constantly judging the Lee’s for not giving Lia her medications correctly. However, it didn’t take me long to realize they were doing what they thought was best for their daughter. This taught me that it is incredibly important to respect the decisions that other cultures make for their family members. The final goal that I achieved was being able to understand some of the issues that may arise while working with other cultures. I learned that it might not always be easy, especially when a language barrier is present, but it is important to go above and beyond for every patient. This includes calling a translator, even if it takes a little extra time.

My thinking has changed tremendously after taking this course. As a CNA, I see patients all the time in the hospital that don’t speak any English. I have begun to put myself in their shoes, and realize how scary it would be to put your trust in the hands of people you can’t easily communicate with. I have so much respect for other cultures and have this class to thank for that.