Unique Needs of Family Caregiver Immigrants

Most immigrant family caregivers (FCs) want the best care for their loved ones. This caring attitude is rooted in many cultural practices and values which immigrant FCs carry with them when they immigrate to the USA. Misconceptions may occur when communicating with immigrant populations if the nurse is not knowledgeable about cultural differences, beliefs, and practices. Many healthcare misconceptions and social missteps could be prevented by learning about various cultures, especially those that the nurse encounters most often. This chapter provides a brief description of some basic cultural behaviors and practices which can be helpful for nurses when they are dealing with immigrant populations that may have unique healthcare needs. It highlights nine scenarios drawn from real-life situations that nurses have experienced in caring for various immigrant FCs. Understanding cultural differences avoids misconceptions and miscommunications between the nurse, patients, and their FCs. Part of the professional responsibility, as nurses, is to conduct a thorough assessment in order to meet the needs of our patients, regardless of cultural backgrounds. Cultural sensitivity is an important aspect of successful communication. Nurses need to have this foundational knowledge in order to establish trust, develop nursing diagnoses, and provide FC care.