A. What are the differences that may affect Cuban-American patients who immigrated at different times?
B. What can a nurse do to make life in the hospital more culture-specific for an Amish client?
C. List at least two etiological reasons for the development of alcoholism within an Irish-American family.
Sample Answer
A. Differences Affecting Cuban-American Patients Who Immigrated at Different Times
The Cuban-American population is incredibly diverse, and the timing of immigration significantly shapes their experiences, values, and interactions with the healthcare system.
- Early Immigrants (1959-1970s): This wave, often referred to as "Golden Exiles" or those who came through "Freedom Flights," typically comprised individuals from higher socioeconomic strata in Cuba, including professionals, landowners, and business owners. They largely fled Fidel Castro's communist revolution, often expecting to return once the political situation changed. They experienced a profound loss of social status, wealth, and identity upon arrival in the U.S. As a result, this group often maintains strong anti-Castro sentiments, values self-sufficiency, and built close-knit community enclaves (like Miami's Little Havana). In healthcare, they may express a strong distrust of government-run systems (due to their experiences with the Cuban regime) and place significant reliance on family for support and decision-making regarding health.