Of which biological variations among Korean Americans should the nurse be aware?
Describe how stereotyping Puerto Ricans as similar to other Hispanic Americans can lead the nurse to errors in patient care.
Describe the geographical location of Jordan, and indicate how this region of the world and the political turmoil experienced by Jordanians may have a profound political impact on the health and well-being of recently immigrated Jordanian Americans.
Sample Answer
Biological Variations Among Korean Americans
When providing care to Korean American patients, nurses should be aware of several biological variations that may influence health status, disease prevalence, and response to treatments. It's crucial to remember that these are generalizations based on population studies and individual variations always exist. Always assess each patient individually.
Genetic Predisposition to Certain Diseases:
Gastric Cancer: Korean Americans, like other East Asian populations, have a significantly higher incidence of gastric (stomach) cancer compared to Caucasians. This is linked to genetic factors, dietary habits (e.g., high consumption of salted and pickled foods), and higher prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection. Nurses should be aware of this increased risk, encourage screening if appropriate, and educate on risk reduction strategies.