4.10: Criticisms of Transcultural Nursing

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Page ID: 49373

Vasfiye Bayram De?er
Gümüşhane University via IntechOpen

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Although transcultural nursing has an important role in the holistic approach, it is criticized at some points and is also mentioned in opposing views.

In the case of launching nationalist initiatives in intercultural care, it has been stated that stereotyped images may emerge, and that particular attention may be paid to certain cultural individuals in the caring process. Given the presence of some 3000 cultures around the world, it is impossible for healthcare professionals to have knowledge of all cultures. It also requires the specialization of health personnel in order to provide qualified, culturally specific care. Despite the desire to create multicultural societies in the world in which there are liberal immigrant policies, it cannot be argued that there is an accepted standard in health care, in terms of the socioeconomic status, ethnic characteristics, sexual behavior and lifestyle preferences. There is a cultural crisis in health care services. Individualized intercultural care is a nurse’s responsibility as both a human and a professional. However, it is noted that nurses may be ethnocentric with cultural knowledge, understanding, awareness, education, cultural competence and lack of faith [58].

It is argued that extraordinary endeavors in cultural sensitivity can result in the classification of cultures, thereby leading to stereotyped behaviors in certain cultures, races and religions. Another criticism is that paying particular attention to the patient of a particular culture, and focusing on that side can cause limitations in care. It is emphasized that the patient may feel “special”, “needing protection” or “patronized”. In addition, it has been pointed out that concerns about transcultural care in the field of health will only lead to formation of specialization in transcultural care that could increase responsibilities for nurses, which in turn will put a burden on them [2].