Hispanic/Latino Culture

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The Hispanic/Latino population is the most prevalent minority group in the United States, representing approximately 16% of the population in 2010 (Caballero, 2011). By 2050, the Hispanic population in the United States will inflate to 30 percent (Juckett, 2013). Juckett also reported that among the Latino population, about 23 percent live in poverty, and due to their incapability to pay for health insurance, almost one-third have insufficient coverage (2013). Juckett (2013) also added that besides lacking of coverage, sufficient evidence have shown that language barrier, cultural mistrust, and a tendency to pursue unconventional care first. Therefore, it is very crucial to healthcare providers to have a cultural insight to understand and …show more content…
It is important to start the conversation with pleasantries prior to assessment or medical treatment. Respeto indicates respect in honoring an older person and also giving full attention to patient. Older patients should not be addressed by their first names, instead acknowledge them as señor or señora to show respect and maintain their dignity (Caballero, 2011). Facial expression, including smile are often used to communicate feelings in Hispanic/ Latino culture, and indirect eye contact is also preferred (Blais & Hayes, …show more content…
Hispanic/ Latino culture emphasizes on present orientation; consequently, they may not see the corellation between future benefits and changing today’s detrimental habit or behavior. It is also important to avoid fixed schedule to promote compliance in Hispanic/ Latino patients while allowing enough time to establish respect and to show interest in them (Blais & Hayes, 2016).
Food has a significant role in the Hispanic/ Latino culture; a balanced food and herbs by its “hot” and “cold” characteristics is considered as a good meal, and people who consume foods with wrong temperatures can get sick (CDC, n.d). The staple meals are made of rice and bean prepared with lard and served with tortilla or bread (Medina, n.d.); a diet high in fat or sugar which contributes to prevalent obesity and diabetes among Hispanics/ Latinos (Caballero, 2011).
Tolerance of pain signifies strength and endurance in Hispanic/ Latino culture which relates to machismo. It is important to observe nonverbal or facial expression of patients with this belief to detect pain; pain management education without degrading their belief is crucial to obtain good rapport between patients and healthcare providers (Medina,