ASNA Independent Study Activity - Cultural Assessment of Koreans

Alabama Nurse,  Sep-Nov 2003  by Roberson, Charlene M

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Koreans will not demand their rights as individuals and will unquestionable rely upon, and accept the right of the hierarchy to make the best decisions for them. Most Koreans believe in the teaching of Confucius, which states that they must accept their assigned roles in the fixed society of authority. This becomes important when signing consents. The patient may not sign anything until the family decision-maker reviews the documents.

During the process of delivering nursing care, be prepared for them to ask you personal questions. Examples would include, "How old are you?" or "Are you married?" These are not impolite questions to a Korean. Especially the age question, because if you are an older nurse you will be afforded more respect, much as an elder in their community. Their tone of voice implies many qualities with wide varieties of pitches and tones. A nurse may interpret a normal conversation as arguing because the speaker will talk louder on an aspect deemed important. They will also speak louder and more authoritarian toward younger individuals or younger nurses. Elders and gray haired nurses are always spoken to in quieter, more respectable tones. Nurses and doctors are viewed as authority figures and will be treated with great respect. When you respect someone you do not disagree with them; therefore, sometimes they will answer "yes" even when the word "no" is more appropriate. Koreans rarely use the word "no." Instead they will provide non-verbal clues implying a negative response. A common clue is hesitation before responding. Be alert to this as many Westerners often miss this clue.

Assessments: Although Koreans will hug, touch, and even push each other when they are comfortable, it is not acceptable for you, the nurse, to touch them or enter their close personal space except for an examination. The initial nursing assessment will be difficult, as Koreans will not be forthcoming with personal data even regarding their health. Always bear in mind, that they are taught from childhood not to share inner feelings with a stranger. Remember that data the nurse might consider essential and not private might be very personal to someone brought up in the Korean culture. An example would be questions about breast self exams, sleep patterns, elimination, etc. Therefore, your assessment will probably remain incomplete until a trusting relationship has been established. If you perceive an increasing discomfort level, delay asking questions not directly related to presenting symptoms. Be alert to the patient's and their significant other's body language and facial expressions. Nurses will notice little direct eye contact until the patient (and significant others) are comfortable with you. They may frequently glance or look at you if they suspect you are not looking at them. It is proper for the nurse to look at the patient even thought they may avoid your gaze during this initial assessment. Some nurses incorrectly interpret their facial expressions as flat or dull. However, as rapport is established, more facial expressions will be directed toward you and other members of the health care team. Once you sense the establishment of rapport or a comfort level, finish the assessments. Determine if the patient wants a family member present when completing the assessment. As they do not openly share feelings with strangers, they probably will not say "thank you", "I'm sorry", or "excuse me" as you are providing nursing care.