Enhancing Nursing Care through Cultural Competence: Focus on the Inupiat Community.

INTRODUCTION

This article explores the historical and cultural background of the Inupiat community, highlighting health disparities and emphasizing culturally competent care's role in addressing them.

METHODS

Inupiat health beliefs, communication styles, family dynamics, and dietary habits are examined in relation to Western medical practices within tribal health systems. Strategies for cultural education include curriculum development, simulations, clinical assignments, and partnerships with Inupiat healthcare professionals.

RESULTS

Challenges in providing culturally competent care to the Inupiat community are identified, including barriers in nursing education and legal implications for nursing practice. Strategies for enhancing nursing cultural competency are outlined.

DISCUSSION

This paper advocates integrating cultural competency into nursing practices to improve care for the Inupiat community, focusing on training, education, and policy recommendations. It emphasizes the importance of respecting and integrating Inupiat cultural practices to enhance health outcomes and healthcare experiences.