How do I manage a situation when my cultural beliefs and values conflict with a patients beliefs?
A health care provider has an obligation to provide care for a patient regardless of the providers cultural beliefs and values. It is important to respect the patients beliefs and try to assist the patient in adhering to those beliefs. If the patient has any special requests pertaining to his or her cultural beliefs, discuss with your supervisor how these needs can be met. If you encounter a situation in which you believe you are unable to respect the patients beliefs, you should ask to change your assignment, so a more impartial health care provider may take care of the patient.
