Ethical Principles in Creating a Caring Environment for the English Second Language-Speaking Refugee: A Case Study in Healthcare

QUESTION

You have identified and critically examined two (2) ethical principles and how they contribute to creating and maintaining a caring environment.

You have evaluated how the ethical principles link to the chosen scenario.

Scenario 3: The refugee who speaks English as a second language

Zaid (48 years old) is a Syrian refugee who was granted asylum in Australia two years ago. He started learning English around the same time and speaks the language well enough to get by in most social situations, but he is unable to read English.

Zaid has been an inpatient on the general ward for a few days, originally admitted with abdominal pain. He has already had an ultrasound and been diagnosed with gallstones, and now has been scheduled for a cholecystectomy in the morning. The notes state that Zaid has had the procedure and risks explained to him, and there is a signed consent form. However, as you are taking Zaid’s vital signs in the evening, he asks you what the “test” is that he will be having tomorrow, and why did the food service staff say he is not allowed to eat or drink?

ANSWER

Ethical Principles in Creating a Caring Environment for the English Second Language-Speaking Refugee: A Case Study in Healthcare

Introduction

In the healthcare setting, ethical principles play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining a caring environment for patients, especially for those who face language barriers and come from diverse cultural backgrounds. This essay examines two ethical principles, beneficence and cultural competence, and their contribution to creating a compassionate and supportive environment for Zaid, a Syrian refugee who speaks English as a second language. By evaluating how these principles apply to the scenario, we can better understand their significance in promoting patient-centered care and ensuring Zaid’s well-being throughout his medical journey.

Beneficence

Beneficence is an ethical principle rooted in the concept of doing good and acting in the best interest of the patient. It emphasizes the healthcare provider’s duty to promote the patient’s welfare and well-being. In Zaid’s case, beneficence is essential in guiding the healthcare team to provide him with the best possible care, taking into account his unique needs and circumstances.

Contribution to a Caring Environment

When healthcare professionals uphold the principle of beneficence, they demonstrate empathy, compassion, and a commitment to ensuring that Zaid receives comprehensive care. This includes:

Clear Communication: Ensuring that Zaid fully understands the upcoming cholecystectomy procedure, its purpose, and the reasons for fasting, even if it means using interpreter services or bilingual staff to bridge the language gap effectively.

Informed Consent: Confirming that Zaid’s consent for the procedure is genuinely informed, addressing any questions or concerns he might have, and verifying that he comprehends the potential risks and benefits.

Post-Operative Care: Following the surgery, providing appropriate pain management and attentive monitoring to facilitate Zaid’s recovery and well-being.

Cultural Competence

Cultural competence refers to healthcare providers’ ability to understand and respect the cultural beliefs, values, and practices of diverse patient populations. In Zaid’s case, being a Syrian refugee, he likely comes from a culture with distinct healthcare customs and communication styles.

Contribution to a Caring Environment

By embracing cultural competence, the healthcare team can create an environment that acknowledges and respects Zaid’s cultural background:

Language Access: Ensuring that language interpretation services are readily available to Zaid during all stages of his hospitalization, including pre-operative consultations and post-operative care, to facilitate effective communication with healthcare providers.

Culturally Sensitive Care: Taking into account any cultural preferences related to diet, privacy, and family involvement in decision-making, to promote Zaid’s comfort and sense of dignity.

Family Involvement: Recognizing the importance of family in Zaid’s culture and involving them, if appropriate, in discussions related to his care and recovery.

Link to the Chosen Scenario

In the given scenario, the ethical principles of beneficence and cultural competence are of utmost importance to support Zaid during his hospitalization. By adhering to beneficence, healthcare providers must ensure that Zaid comprehends the upcoming procedure and associated fasting requirements, with clear and accessible communication. Additionally, the principle of cultural competence requires the healthcare team to provide language interpretation services and consider any cultural preferences in Zaid’s care, fostering an environment of respect and understanding.

Conclusion

In the context of the healthcare scenario involving Zaid, the Syrian refugee who speaks English as a second language, the ethical principles of beneficence and cultural competence play pivotal roles in creating and maintaining a caring environment. By prioritizing Zaid’s welfare, ensuring effective communication, and respecting his cultural background, the healthcare team can provide patient-centered care that promotes his well-being and aids in a positive medical outcome. Embracing these ethical principles not only benefits individual patients like Zaid but also fosters a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare system overall.