NACE Cultural and Spiritual Considerations in Nursing 3

Question 1

An Orthodox Jewish patient has just died. Which family request should the nurse recognize as consistent with their tradition?

Accepted Answer

Having someone stay with the body until burial

Answer

In Orthodox Judaism the body is traditionally not left alone, burial occurs quickly, and autopsy and cremation are generally discouraged.

Question 2

After the death of a Muslim patient, which nursing action is most culturally appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Allow family members of the same gender to wash the body if they wish

Answer

In Islam, ritual washing is traditionally done by family or community members of the same gender as the deceased.

Question 3

A dying Buddhist patient declines an increase in sedating pain medication. What is the most likely reason?

Accepted Answer

The patient may wish to keep a clear, calm mind at death

Answer

Many Buddhists value a clear, peaceful state of mind at the time of death, so they may limit sedating medications.

Question 4

The family of a Hispanic patient with terminal cancer asks the nurse not to tell the patient the diagnosis. What is the nurse's best response?

Accepted Answer

Find out from the patient how much information they want and who they want involved in decisions

Answer

Asking the patient about their information and decision-making preferences respects both autonomy and family-centered cultural values.

Question 5

A Sikh patient needs a peripheral IV in an area covered by body hair. What should the nurse do before shaving?

Accepted Answer

Ask for the patient's consent, because uncut hair (kesh) is a religious article of faith

Answer

Kesh (uncut hair) is one of the five Ks of Sikhism, so hair should not be cut or shaved without consent.

Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) I PN-RN Practice Test