CBP Cultural Competency 3

Question 1

Building ofrendas (home altars) with photos, marigolds, and the deceased's favorite foods is associated with which observance?

Accepted Answer

Día de los Muertos

Answer

Día de los Muertos, observed November 1-2, honors deceased loved ones with ofrendas and reflects ongoing bonds with the dead.

Question 2

In traditional Hindu funeral practice, who most commonly performs the central cremation rites, such as lighting the pyre?

Accepted Answer

The eldest son

Answer

Traditionally the eldest son performs the mukhagni, or lighting of the pyre, though families today vary.

Question 3

Many Buddhist families, particularly in Chinese and Tibetan traditions, observe a mourning and prayer period of how many days after death?

Accepted Answer

49 days

Answer

The 49-day period reflects the belief that the consciousness passes through an intermediate state (bardo) before rebirth.

Question 4

A Catholic family urgently asks for a priest as their relative nears death. What sacrament are they most likely seeking?

Accepted Answer

Anointing of the Sick

Answer

Anointing of the Sick, often called 'last rites' along with Viaticum, offers spiritual comfort to the seriously ill or dying.

Question 5

A family from a collectivist culture asks that the patient not be told the terminal diagnosis. What is the most culturally competent first step?

Accepted Answer

Ask the patient privately how much they want to know and who should receive information

Answer

Asking the patient's preferences respects both autonomy and cultural norms of family-centered decision-making.

CBP - Certified Bereavement Practitioner Practice Test