I have recently attended a traditional Venda wedding, and something that stuck with me the most is the respect that is shown and expressed. When it comes to children’s palliative care or any healthcare setting, respect should be the start of your cultural competence. Respect for the child and their family, respect for the illness, respect for their culture and beliefs, and most importantly, respect for them as a whole.
Just because you have a different culture, doesn’t mean you can’t attempt to understand the different ones. One of the most important things I have learned, is that there isn’t something as a stupid question. So when you are unsure of some of their cultural practices or beliefs, ASK. They will more than likely be happy to explain the process to you, and by asking, you show that you are interested, care and respect them enough to want to understand. I think the best way to be culturally sensitive, is to ask. I cannot stress the importance of it enough. There can be no assumptions when it comes to the holistic care of a dying child and their family.
I also think the religious and cultural side of a child and their family’s needs tend to be undervalued and pushed aside. As we have learned, spiritual wellness directly influences emotional and physical wellness.
So the thing to remember at all times, is to be respectful and always ask.
