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Strategies for approaching common issues in palliative and end-of life care that may be culturally influenced: Building relationships and learning about customs, religion, and spirituality

Strategies for approaching common issues in palliative and end-of life care that may be culturally influenced: Building relationships and learning about customs, religion, and spirituality
Strategies Suggested phrases and tools
  • Ask about the patient as a person.
    • Such open-ended questions can bring forward important patient issues that may not otherwise come to light.[1]
  • "What do I need to know about you as a person to give you the best care possible?"[1]
  • "What else do you want me to know about you and your friends/family that will help me take good care of you?"
  • Ask questions that will help you learn more about the patient's life, family, cultural background, and spiritual beliefs.[2]
  • "Are there things that I should know about your family background, religious beliefs, or community that would help me take better care of you?"
  • "How important is religion (or spirituality) in your life?"
  • "Can you tell me anything about your customs or spiritual beliefs that might affect your health care?"
  • "Some patients have spiritual or religious beliefs that prevent them from having certain tests or treatments, such as blood transfusions. Do you have any specific concerns?"
References:
  1. Chochinov HM. Dignity-conserving care--a new model for palliative care: helping the patient feel valued. JAMA 2002; 287:2253.
  2. Domer T, Kaur JS. Palliative practice in Indian health. S D Med 2008; :36.
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