ASNA Independent Study Activity - Cultural Assessment of Koreans

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

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Labor practices are not remarkable. They may or may not have natural childbirth. Women, especially younger women, may be vocal during labor. Breast feeding may or may not be used. A breast feeding Mother will wean her infant before returning to work. Korean women usually do not pump their breast or store milk. Post Partum rest is considered important and encouraged. If something is wrong with the baby tell the father first and let him tell the mother. She will probably view this as something that she did wrong. The mother will need much support.

Serious or Terminal Illness: Tell the family spokesman first and they will tell both the patient and family. It must be emphasized that nurses and doctors do not share news of a serious or terminal illness with the patient initially. In all probability the patient will not ask about details. In the case of a bad prognosis the family unit will gather together as a whole and support the patient. The family and the ill individual will accept their fate, as everything happens for a reason. The rationale for this is the past life is viewed as learning lessons, the present is about living and carrying on with life, and the future is perceived but not focused on. The nurses' role at this time is to be supportive, anticipate patient and family needs, and simply be available when or if needed.

Death Rituals: When death is imminent tell the family spokesman so that they can prepare the family. Again, nurses and doctors do not tell the patient directly. Family members usually prefer for the patient to remain in the hospital. And at the time of death, family members may moan, chant, burn incense, or pray. Provide for their privacy. To an outsider these actions may even seem over-dramatized. They will not leave the room quickly, choosing instead to remain with the body. It is common for the family members to cleanse the body after death. At death and under certain circumstances state and national laws mandate autopsies and a request for organ donations. Neither of these practices is looked on with favor as it tampers with the spirit. This presents an ethical dilemma for the nursing staff. It is advisable to have administrative (and pastoral care if available) support available when the family spokesman is consulted about organ donations or an autopsy. The family will probably not agree. You can share that the body is treated with dignity and respect and all organs are replaced in the original spot after the autopsy is over. However, even with this explanation this will be a difficult call. This is not a time for nurses to act alone. It is imperative to consult with administration.

Selected American Behaviors That Koreans Find Especially Offensive. Behaviors include:

* Not standing up when an elder or important person comes into the room.

* Showing the sole of your shoe.

* Crossing legs in front of an important person.

* Receiving or giving an item with one hand.

* Pointing the index finger.

* Smoking in front of an elder or important person.