NUR1502

Multicultural nursing ( 3 points, SCA Band 0, 0.063 EFTSL)

Leader: Ms Merylin Cross (Gippsland), Mr Charanjit Singh (Peninsula) & Ms Lyn Faulks

Offered:
Gippsland Second semester 2006 (Day)
MILDURA Second semester 2006 (Day)
Peninsula Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit will provide a window of opportunity for students to develop and increase their level of self-awareness in multicultural nursing. It will also help enhance their fundamental communication skills, knowledge, skills and attitudes relevant to cultural sensitivity and safety when dealing with clients from various cultural backgrounds. The need for this unit is further supported by the internationally mobile nature of nursing employment. Providing students with opportunities to explore the nursing implications of cultural differences will enhance their cultural sensitivity and practice and also advance their employment opportunities regionally, nationally and internationally.

Objectives: On completion of this unit students should be able to: 1. define the notion of culture and how it manifests itself; 2. discuss the major concepts related to culture and cross-culture theories; 3. critically analyse the role of cultural sensitivity and safety when dealing with clients from different cultural backgrounds and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders; 4. identify and discuss their own and the nursing professions' attitude to clients from different cultural groups and explain the relationship between culture, health and health care issues for people from different cultural backgrounds including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders; 5. demonstrate ability to communicate effectively in a culturally sensitive manner; and 6. undertake a comprehensive bio-psychological cultural assessment and incorporate insight throughout the nursing process in terms of considering clients' and their families cultural beliefs, values, roles, patterns, lifestyles and family system.

Assessment: Written Assignment: 50% + Presentation: 25% + Written report of Presentation: 25%

Contact Hours: 3 hours per week (lecture, tutorial)